A PAINTING of three front-line NHS workers at Glasgow Royal Infirmary has been gifted to the hospital by a local artist.

The artwork by Robert Miller depicting a nurse, anaesthetist and physiotherapist has been mounted outside the hospital's intensive care unit.

The Glaswegian artist, who refused payment for painting and framing the 5ft by 4ft picture, was asked by the health board to create a piece of work to commemorate the "dedication" of the hospital's staff.

Miller said he was "honoured" to be asked to paint the hospital's staff, which he copied from photographs of the three individuals.

He said: "The Royal has such a special place in the hearts of Glaswegians and its amazing staff have been at the heart of the city's response to the pandemic.

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"The staff are all wearing masks in the picture so it was more important for me than ever to capture their eyes well.

"I hope people like it and they take a minute to think of the enormity of the situation we've been facing.

"Who knows how long it will hang there but it's been good to be part of marking the dedication of our amazing NHS. We are truly lucky."

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde's chief nurse John Stuart said: "Glasgow Royal has such a long and distinguished history of being a respected teaching hospital.

"It is world-renowned and has a proud history in the east end.

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"It's been there through world wars, major incidents and other outbreaks – and it's been there for Glaswegians throughout this pandemic that none of us will ever forget."

He added: "I wanted to capture the enormity of this and approached Glasgow artist and musician Robert Miller with the idea of creating a piece of artwork, which people can look back on.

"I just felt we needed to capture the dedication of our amazing staff in a way that would last for future generations.

"We are so grateful to Robert for creating such a beautiful picture.

"I think it perfectly captures our staff – anaesthetist Dr Kathryn Puxty, physiotherapist Helen Devine and senior charge nurse Suzi Madden – and will serve as a symbol of the dedication of all the staff who served in NHS GGC and gives them their place in history."