The European Hernia Society is excited to announce this award that recognises trainers who go out of their way for their trainees and who promote the highest standards of training in hernia surgery. With high quality training comes excellent patient care and nominees will also be assessed on their clinical practice and testimonials from staff.
The award will be announced at our annual congress in Antwerp, Belgium and the winner asked to give a short presentation on what a great trainer looks like.
Eligibility: Any surgical trainer from one of the 27 countries that the European Hernia Society represents. EHS Board members are not eligible.
How to nominate: To nominate a trainer for the award you must be a member of the EHS
(residents can join for free through this link: Become an EHS Member).
Please use the online nomination form below
Closing date for entries was 31st February 2027.
Consultant Colorectal Surgeon & Abdominal Wall Reconstruction Specialist Mid and South Essex University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, UK
Mr. Hammond is an exceptional surgical trainer whose dedication to Abdominal Wall Reconstruction training and mentorship makes him highly deserving of this award. He creates a supportive learning environment where trainees develop confidence, technical expertise, and independent clinical judgment while maintaining the highest standards of patient safety. His teaching is structured, practical, and tailored to individual progression, allowing trainees to manage increasingly complex cases with confidence. Beyond clinical training, Mr. Hammond is deeply committed to academic development and innovation. He actively supports research, enabling trainees to contribute to publications, presentations, and advances in AWR techniques. His professionalism, approachability, and genuine investment in trainee success continue to inspire the next generation of surgeons and advance standards in hernia care internationally.
“His ethos is that every fellow has to leave the unit better than him – so they can teach him something new.”
Gaurav Kulkarni, former fellow
“I’m now a consultant in a major abdominal wall unit. That simply would not have happened without his training.”
Gaurav Kulkarni, former fellow
‘’He creates a supportive learning environment where you feel trusted but also safely guided. His teaching in theatre is clear and practical, breaking down complex abdominal wall procedures into steps that are easy to understand and apply. This has allowed me to build confidence and progress in managing increasingly complex cases.’’
Alaa Soliman, trainee
‘’Mr. Hammond is not only
an excellent surgeon but a truly dedicated trainer who goes out of his way to support and inspire his trainees.’’
Alaa Soliman, trainee
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