Medical professionals from the Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS trust were put through their paces in a military leadership and team building day on Thursday, September 25.

In total 30 staff from the Trust received instructions from the 220 Medical Squadron, based in Maidstone, and the South East of England’s Army Reserve Medic Units (256 (City of London) Field Hospital, based in Brighton.

Consultants, doctors, nurses and operating department practitioners (ODPs) took part in five tasks, including an assault course, at the Crowborough Cadet Training Camp.

Major Angus Turner, a consultant anesthetist for the Trust and a reservist with 256 (City of London) Field Hospital, organised the event.

He said: “It was all about giving my colleagues a team building and leadership experience with a difference.

“Being outdoors, putting them out of their comfort zones and giving them some physical as well as mental challenges has definitely helped to strengthen team bonds and dynamics.

“By the looks of their smiling faces, it’s been a very successful day!”

The winning team consisted of Maidstone’s ODP’s Georgina Taylor and Sean McDonald, nurses Kelly Brooks and Filipa Vicente and Tunbridge Wells nurses Joana Vieira (Ward 10) and Guilherme Pereira.

Glenn Douglas, chief executive of the NHS Trust, said: “This truly encapsulates the spirit of team work and if you can bring that spirit back to work with you, then the day has been a great success.”

For those wishing to join 256 (City of London) Field Hospital or needing details on who is eligible to join call: 0207 091 2658 or visit www.army.mod.uk/medical-services or www.armyjobs.mod.uk