THE Paul Lock Memorial Fund is not intended to pay for training or development needs that will be covered by NHS budgets.

But it will support training that, while not termed essential, will enhance paediatric skills in North Devon.

One example was a special training workshop in Barnstaple.

The subject was Distraction Therapy and Guided Imagery and was run by Dr Bernie Whitaker, an Australian based consultant, who lectures around the world on these ground breaking techniques.

Many children can be terribly upset and worried about what is happening to them when they come into hospital and especially if they are in a lot of pain. Their state of mind can be a barrier to quick and effective treatment.

By applying techniques introduced in the training session it is possible for children to divert negative thoughts and adopt a more relaxed and positive mindset — which directly influences the hospital's ability to deliver the necessary care more efficiently.

The memorial fund also organises the annual Paul Lock Memorial Lecture held at the Medical Education Centre in Raleigh Park.

At the annual lecture the fund also presents a memorial prize in recognition of work done to improve techniques and practices for the wider good.

From this year the fund will also present the Paul Lock Memorial Prize in Paediatrics to the student at the Peninsula Medical School who is most able to demonstrate the unique skills and aptitudes required for a career in paediatrics.