A royal thank you for neurosurgical staff

A local artist whose work rocketed to fame during the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations has donated one of her works to hospital staff.

Charge Nurse, Paul Johnson

Eleanor Tomlinson, from Broomfleet, painted the now instantly recognisable ‘Jubilee Ma’amalade Tea’ which features Her Majesty the Queen, Paddington Bear, a trusty corgi and of course, a marmalade sandwich.

Eleanor posted the picture on social media after being inspired to paint by the Platinum Pageant in early June. Since then, she has received literally thousands of requests from people looking to secure a copy.

But Eleanor has a special reason for donating a signed copy of the work to staff on Neurosurgical Ward 4 at Hull Royal Infirmary, and that’s her dad, Nick.

Paul Johnson, charge nurse on Ward 4 explains: “Nick came to us a few years ago for care following a head injury. He made a strong recovery, and since his discharge from hospital, he’s stayed in touch like many of our patients do after a potentially life changing event.

“While we just saw it as doing our job, Nick, Eleanor and the rest of the family were really grateful for the care he received. He’s never forgotten us, in fact Nick even did some fundraising a little while ago to get us some equipment for our staff room, but this latest donation that Nick and Eleanor have made to us is really unique.”

This special print of ‘Jubilee Ma’amalade Tea’ is dedicated to the nurses, doctors, and all the support staff who helped Nick and his family through his time in hospital. It has been framed, personally signed by the artist, and has a heartfelt address ‘To Paul and the team’.

Paul continues: “I’m really proud of my team for the care they deliver every day, but to be recognised in this way is something really special, and we all feel really privileged to have been chosen to receive a signed copy as a thank you.

“Knowing so many people wanted them, and knowing Her Majesty the Queen also has the same picture, makes us feel very honoured!”

Eleanor says: “I’m delighted it’s gone down well and hopefully will bring some smiles to the team and patients. I’m very grateful to all the team for everything they did when my dad was with them.”

More information on Eleanor Tomlinson and her work can be found at www.eleanortomlinsonart.co.uk