A TEAM of adventurous doctors and nurses from Ysbyty Gwynedd put their leadership skills to the test to win a gruelling military challenge.

The annual Exercise Medical Stretch challenge, run by 203 Welsh Field Hospital, brings together teams from all over the NHS in Wales for a series of tasks and challenges.

It aims to give the participants a chance to develop a range of skills, including teamwork, problem solving and leadership, which they can bring to the workplace.

The competition took place over a 48-hour period at the end of August, at Sennybridge MOD training area near Brecon, and featured two teams of staff from Ysbyty Gwynedd and Glan Clwyd Hospital.

The teams began their challenging weekend by navigating themselves, carrying all of their equipment, across 21km of mountainous training area.

As well as sleeping under the trees, with just a poncho for cover, they were handed a range of physically and mentally demanding timed tasks.

The team from Ysbyty Gwynedd were victorious in the event and took home the trophy while the team from Ysbyty Glan Clwyd received high praise from the organisers for their efforts.

Army reservist and anaesthetist, Lt Col Mark Knights (Royal Army Medical Corps), said: “This is a great achievement for the team and they should be proud of their efforts.

“The team worked exceptionally well throughout the competition and displayed the leadership and teamwork qualities that the NHS really needs.

“The competition was tough at times but the team showed courage and determination. I am really pleased that the trophy has come up to North Wales this year.”

As well as working as a consultant anaesthetist for BCUHB, Lt Col Knights is officer in charge of C Detachment, the North Wales detachment of 203 Field Hospital based in Llandudno.

They are currently recruiting healthcare professionals, drivers, clerks, and other positions.

For more information call 02920 562 291 or search Army Reserves.