A UNIT at Redditch’s Alexandra Hospital has been dedicated to the memory of a ward manager who died last year aged just 32.

Gareth Marlow, who worked as a nurse before stepping up to the role of ward manager, died of complications during a routine heart operation in July 2013.

At the end of last month staff on ward five dedicated a unit to his memory and put up a plaque at the entrance to a bay, which will now be known as the Marlow Unit.

Mr Marlow’s mum Susan Hunter was on hand at the event on Friday, May 30 and described it as “a very proud moment”.

“He would have been very happy to know how inspired he made his colleagues feel,” he said.

“I am overwhelmed to see how important he was to everyone.”

Chief executive of Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust – which runs the Alex along with Worcestershire Royal Hospital and Kidderminster Hospital – Penny Venables said Mr Marlow’s passion for nursing and patient care “lifted spirits” on ward five.

“He was a real character and is greatly missed by the team,” she said.

“His compassion for patients, talent for mentoring and complete professionalism continue to inspire the nurses he worked with and he will be remembered fondly.

“I am honoured to dedicate the Marlow Unit in Gareth’s memory.”