A NEW security regime at Nevill Hall Hospital - instigated after a violent attack in its intensive care unit - has won favour from staff and their local MP.

Monmouth member David Davies expressed relief that revised procedures appeared to be working successfully.

His comments came after a visit to the hospital last week when he personally thanked members of staff who rushed to help a colleague whose drugged-up estranged husband tried to strangle her.

A dozen members of staff heroically fought him off, saving her life and protecting the critically-ill patients on the ward.

Mr Davies said the gravity of last September’s incident had caused ‘real fear’ among staff for their safety at work.

He had joined others in calling for tighter security at the hospital in the wake of the drama involving 39-year-old Royston Jones from Brynmawr who earlier this year was convicted of the attempted murder of his wife Claire.

He is currently serving a 15-year prison sentence imposed at Newport Crown Court.

Mr Davies, who commended staff for their bravery, said, “Their actions that day went above and beyond the call of duty and I was delighted to thank them in person for their selfless acts of bravery.”

Some £120,000 was invested in improving security at Aneurin Bevan Health Board hospitals, including better CCTV cover and the introduction of security staff at night and on weekends.

“I really appreciate the fantastic job that everyone working at Nevill Hall Hospital does,” said the MP.

He added, “I’m told it has been a stressful and emotional time for all concerned, which is why it is vital staff have a safe working environment where they feel protected.

“I was therefore pleased to hear the physical presence of security is proving to be a success and staff can now move forward.”

Earlier this summer the 12 hospital workers caught up in the violent disturbance were presented with Good Citizen Awards at a special ceremony at Gwent Police headquarters.