A PASSIONATE photographer who worked on the front line during the pandemic as an emergency nursing assistant captured the mood on a ward in a series of photographs.

Oxford Mail Camera Club member Becca Collacott , emergency nursing assistant, from the Abingdon Emergency Multidisciplinary Unit (EMU) used her passion for photography to document some evocative and historic moments.

Her photos tell the story of the last year since March 23 and the challenges that she and her colleagues have faced throughout the pandemic.

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Ms Collacott said: “I love my job in Abingdon EMU and I also love photography. One evening I had an idea, I thought why not try and combine them both together.

“So, I thought it would be great for me to take natural shots of all of the team whilst we are working, hoping to capture our Covid-19 experience here at EMU in photos.

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“It was an experience none of us ever expected to be going through. Having this in photos now means we can look back in years to come and reflect on this historical moment. This is a huge part of our history and we can share our experiences with our partners, children, grandchildren and friends in years to come.”

The black and white snaps reveal a wide range of emotions from the ward and the collection has reminded the health care workers of the difficult and the treasured moments.

Jackie Southgate, clinical lead, said: “Everyone was feeling very nervous and unsure of what was to come after watching the news reports from around the world. But together we supported each other and, if anything, it brought us closer together as a team.

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“Throughout the difficult times staff have never lost their sparkle and willingness to go above and beyond every day.

“It has been a privilege to work for the NHS throughout this pandemic. There have been some really difficult and emotional times but also some really treasured moments. This is what Becca wanted to catch on film so she started photographing everyone during their everyday work.

“We as a group would now like to share our experience with you.”