THE Somerset NHS Foundation Trust is celebrating its long-serving chief executive, Peter Lewis, who has been with the trust for 34 years.

Peter started working for the NHS in 1990 and has "driven" the trust through its transformation in recent years, from three into one "united trust", the Trust stated.

The trust said in a Facebook post: "Join us in celebrating our chief executive, Peter Lewis, who will soon mark 34 years of service in the NHS!

"Peter’s inspiring journey began in 1990 as an accountancy assistant, making tea and supporting on budgets and reporting. From these humble beginnings, Peter’s relentless dedication saw him rise through the ranks and by 2010, he was chief operating officer at Musgrove Park Hospital!

"Peter's passion for healthcare has driven him to lead us in the transformation of Somerset's three trusts into one united foundation, enhancing care for over 600,000 people in our county."

Peter told the trust: "The NHS is something we should all be very proud of, and being part of that and having the ability to help shape the future as we go forward is a privilege."

Somerset NHS Foundation Trust added: "Thank you, Peter, for your remarkable service and leadership."