Tracy Earley, Consultant Nurse – Nutrition, Lancashire Teaching Hospitals was invited to a Downing Street reception on the 16th May 2012 to celebrate nursing leaders. Tracy believes that her invitation came on the back of the Nursing Times nutrition award which she won in 2011 for her commitment to improving patient nutrition. Tracy won the award following a nomination by her Director of Nursing. The celebration at Downing Street consisted of about 100 people from a variety of backgrounds including nursing leaders, executives, health authorities, Industry and some members of parliament. The event delivered a drinks reception and canapés (yes- they even recognised hydration and nutrition) to delegates, after them first having to be robustly passed through a number of security checks. The Prime Minister delivered an inspiring speech and recognised the contribution of those present , even finding the time to speak to Tracy regarding her role in providing nutritional care. Tracy said ‘ It was a lovely evening, and made even more special knowing that nutrition nursing is being recognised in this way’. Tracy continues to play a pivotal role as a key member of the NNNG and is presenting at our conference in Manchester on the 29th and 30th October 2012. Liz Evans Chair of the NNNG said ‘we are incredibly proud that one of our members has been able to fly the flag for nutritional care at the highest level. Tracy continues to be an inspiration for all nutrition nurse specialists by demonstrating what can be achieved by sheer grit and determination to improve the patient experience’