Doctor "honoured" to switch on Durham Cathedral's Christmas tree lights on behalf of frontline workers

Dr Tara Watkiss in Durham Cathedral
Dr Tara Watkiss at Durham Cathedral Credit: Durham Cathedral

A doctor has described switching on Durham Cathedral's Christmas tree lights as an "honour".

Tara Watkiss, a doctor from University Hospital of North Durham, was asked to switch on the lights on behalf of all NHS staff working on the frontline in the fight against COVID-19.  

Dr Tara Watkiss Credit: Durham Cathedral

Dr Watkiss caught COVID-19 herself while treating sick patients.

The switch on, which was streamed online this year, is usually carried out by children from the local community, but this year the invitation was extended to Tara.

Tara continues to care for patients during the winter months, working in the Cardiology unit.