A SURGEON at the borough's only general hospital has been rewarded for his “care, gentleness and professionalism” at a surprise ceremony.

Consultant surgeon Abeywardana Abeysekara, who works at King George Hospital in Ilford, was named employee of the month after being nominated by fellow professionals and the mother of one of his patients.

Registrar Lorik Begolli said: “The relentless care, gentleness and professionalism I have observed in Mr Abeysekara over the years serve as an example to doctors with a ‘robotic’ attitude towards medical care.”

Christine Baker, whose son was treated by the surgeon when he was critically ill, added: “Mr Abeysekara went over and above the call of duty with my son’s care at a time when he was very close to death.

"My son has now returned to work and is doing well. I have no doubt that he and his team saved my son’s life and I will be eternally grateful to him.”