A HAVERFORDWEST doctor was named in the New Year Honours list published on Monday (December 30).

Dr Anne Barnes, 62, of Haverfordwest, is an associate specialist in oncology and end of life care at ward 10, Withybush Hospital.

She is to become an MBE (Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) for services to cancer patients in Pembrokeshire.

Dr Barnes, who received a letter informing her of the honour about five weeks ago, said: “It was a bit of a surprise to say the least. I was just astonished. It had not occurred to me something like this would have happened.

“I feel I don’t deserve it. I’m delighted, but it’s not a one-man show on the ward – all of the staff here are excellent, it’s very much a team effort.”

A mother-of-five, Lancashire-born Dr Barnes qualified as a doctor in Liverpool in 1974 and initially worked on the Isle of Man. She later returned to Liverpool to specialise in oncology.

Having moved to Pembrokeshire in 1983, Dr Barnes has worked in the county ever since, minus a stint in New Zealand, and has been in her current role since 1998.

“Being given an honour is lovely and it’s reassurance that perhaps we are doing something right, what with all the talk of problems in the NHS.”

She added: “Mum will be delighted.”

Hywel Dda University Health Board chairman Chris Martin said: “We are extremely thrilled that Anne’s hard work and dedication over many years to patients at Withybush Hospital has been recognised.

“I have had personal experience of the compassion she shows daily in her work as she cared for my mother and I am delighted for Anne.”