GREAT Western Hospital marked National Pathology Week by promoting the work it does behind the scenes.

The Royal College of Pathologists has organised the campaign which aims to acknowledge the hard work which goes into diagnosing conditions and illnesses.

A microbiology laboratory plays a vital part in the hospital’s pathology work. Annually it tests 270,000 samples of urine, blood and stools as well as carrying out MRSA screening.

“I think there’s this image in the public that they see the doctor, they take the sample and look at it.

“That’s because there’s no real media telling the public otherwise as they see things like that happening on TV shows like ER,” said Penny Latham, lab manager.

“This week aims to raise awareness of us to the public and show the hard work we do to support patient care.”

Penny’s team comprises 24 staff members, with samples able to be tested 24 hours a day, every day of the year.

The microbiology lab tests samples for dieases and also works on understanding which antibiotics can combat the conditions.

Each day the team tests 165 urine, 25 blood, 23 wound and 21 stools each day.

Penny said: “We have an extremely dedicated team here and I’m delighted with their hard work.”

Pathology Week took place last week. At the hospital, there has been a stall promoting the hospital’s pathology services to the public and staff.

Dr Susan Dawson, GWH’s consultant microbiologist, said: “I think the stall has been very successful as we’ve been able to educate a lot of people about what we do.

“This week raises engagement and hopefully draws younger people towards following up a career in this field.”

The microbiology lab has been working with Swindon’s schools to highlight their role at the hospital.

Penny said: “The universities are quite good for providing courses but we work with schools and colleges looking at the younger ages to raise awareness.”

For more information or to find out about a career in pathology, visit www.ilovepathology.org.