Throughout advent, we're highlighting those who work hard throughout the year - and at Christmas - to keep Norfolk and Waveney's health service ticking over.

This countdown of those we count on will focus on a different person or individual every day up until Christmas, celebrating our healthcare heroes.

Howard Muzire

Howard Muzire is a charge nurse for Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust (NSFT) working on Thorpe Ward, at the Norvic Clinic, near Norwich.

'Nursing is really rewarding. I enjoy interacting with patients, while part of my role is to ensure high standards of care and to have awareness of exactly what is happening with all the patients on my ward,' he said.

'I love my job. It's perfect for me as it combines both management and direct patient contact, which I really enjoy.

'I studied mechanical engineering back in Zimbabwe before moving to England in 2002. I did some work caring for vulnerable people and realised I would be more useful as a nurse than an engineer. I also realised I'd get great job satisfaction by seeing people getting better.

'I very much enjoy my job and would recommend a career in nursing to anyone.'

• To read about other holiday health heroes, click on a door on the advent calendar above.