An AIHHP Member has been nominated for an award by a doctor who says his expertise has changed her life.

Surgeon Dr Wendy Christian, now living in South Africa, has put forward hearing aid audiologist Martyn Scott, of Hearing Aid Solution in King Street, for the Audiologist of the Year 2008 award.

The awards, run by Rayovac which has its headquarters in Kent, recognise audiologists and dispensers who go beyond the call of duty in the service they offer.

Dr Christian, 29, diagnosed as hearing impaired since the age of five due to congenital rubella, first met Mr Scott in 2006 when she was living in Carmarthen and looking to upgrade her FM hearing system.

Dr Christian said: "Martyn assured me he would definitely be able to obtain a suitable FM system for me, but he was more concerned about my hearing aid. He had the time and patience that I have never encountered in any audiologist before, and he really went out of his way to ensure that I gave a good hearing aid a fair chance.

"Soon I was 100 per cent comfortable with the aid for my left ear and totally reliant on it, wearing it in social and work situations without concerns. Last year he fitted an aid for my right ear, once again with the same patience and enthusiasm. I am now totally dependent on both my aids, functioning so much better socially and at work. It has made such a huge impact in my life.

"I have tried hearing aids throughout my life, but Martyn took the time to find me an aid that worked and had the patience to allow me to adjust to the new device and the determination to see it through. Without his professional help I would still be struggling to function in a hearing world. He definitely deserves this award, as I am certain he takes the same care with all of his patients," she said.

Mr Scott said: "The award will be wonderful if we win, but the fact that we, like all AIHHP Members were able to help Wendy is reward enough. Patients come to AIHHP Members with wide ranging problems and because we are independent it means we can focus on their individual needs and offer an honest an unbiased service."