A group of specialist nurses has arrived on Teesside from Singapore to help treat patients with severe head injuries, brain tumours and haemorrhages.

The eight registered nurses - originally from the Philippines and India - have arrived at Middlesbrough General Hospital to begin a 16-week induction programme.

Earlier this year, staff from South Tees NHS Trust visited hospitals in Singapore to find extra recruits for its neurosciences team.

The move was in response to a national shortage of neuro-nurses which was affecting recruitment at the hospital.

'Big adventure'

The nurses - all aged between 24 and 33 - have been doing a long-distance learning programme and submitting various pieces of academic work since they were taken on.

Geraldine Atamosa, who previously worked at the Tan Tock Seng Hospital in Singapore, said: "We wanted to come here to gain more experience and knowledge - it's a different hospital, a different team to work with and a different culture.

Maricel Lopez added: "It's a big adventure for us but one we are looking forward to very much.

"The staff have made us welcome and are taking good care of us."

Ward manager Sharon Poskitt and clinical tutor for neurosciences, Audrey Kirby, will oversee the extensive programme.

High standard

Ms Kirby said: "Nationally over the last couple of years, neurosciences has found it difficult to recruit and retain staff.

"On top of that, we were finding it hard to support newly qualified staff or students because staff were just so busy on the wards.

"Primarily, I'm here to support the staff and to maintain education and professional standards within the speciality."

Ms Poskitt added: "We're delighted to have these nurses. Their English and written work is to a very good standard and they're already familiar with a lot of the medical equipment on the wards.

"It will be a bit of a daunting experience for them - they're moving away from home and adapting to a different culture - but they are all very motivated and committed."