The Queen joked with frontline workers as she awarded NHS bosses from the four nations the prestigious George Cross for the health service’s work during the pandemic.

Her Majesty was joined by Prince Charles for the small ceremony at Windsor Castle on Tuesday where the chief executives of NHS England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland were awarded their medals.

Looking relaxed and aided by a walking stick, the 96-year-old also spoke to May Parsons, the nurse who administered the world’s first COVID vaccine to Margaret Keenan at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire on 8 December 2020.

When told about Ms Parson’s historic achievement, she made all her guests laugh, by joking: “You’re still alive?”

Ms Parsons responded by saying: “We’re terribly, terribly proud of the vaccination rollout, it was so successful,” to which Her Majesty replied: “Yes it was amazing.”

Frontline workers from all four nations were allowed to attend the ceremony as a reward for their efforts in getting the country vaccinated.

The Queen continued in good humour, by asking NHS England chief executive Amanda Pritchard what she planned to do with her medal.

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Ms Pritchard said it would go on a tour of the NHS before finding a permanent home.

Lieutenant Colonel Michael Vernon, Comptroller of the Lord Chamberlain’s Office read out the George Cross citation, adding: “It is with great pleasure, on behalf of a grateful nation, that the George Cross is awarded to the National Health Services of the United Kingdom.

“This award recognises all NHS staff, past and present, across all disciplines and all four nations.

“Over more than seven decades, and especially in recent times, you have supported the people of our country with courage, compassion and dedication, demonstrating the highest standards of public service. You have our enduring thanks and heartfelt appreciation.”

Chris Whitty knighted

Earlier on Tuesday England’s chief medical officer Sir Chris Whitty was among those to receive one of the Queen’s honours.

Sir Chris didn’t attend his investiture in person but was awarded a knighthood in this year’s New Year’s honours.

Olympic diver Tom Daley was given an OBE for his services to LGBTQ+ rights, while consumer expert Martin Lewis was given a CBE for his services to broadcasting and consumer rights.

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