A TRANSGENDER woman mistaken for a man when she visited a hospital ward dressed in an Ann Summers Mrs Claus outfit has won an apology from NHS bosses.

Chantelle Saunders, 34, said she was left "very, very upset" after dressing in make-up, wig and a costume to spread some festive cheer at Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital.

She claims a nurse said 'Happy Christmas, sir' and 'Er... it's a man' after she had wished staff a Merry Christmas on December 24 last year.

Chantelle says the nurse then replied 'errgh' when informed she was a transgender woman.

After Chantelle complained the hospital responded with a letter telling her the nurse thought she was male because "you had a full beard and were dressed in male attire."

But bosses have now apologised and said they are keen to speak to Chantelle to see if they can 'explore how we can resolve any remaining issues she has'.

Chantelle said: "I was very, very upset. I'm a transgender woman - transitioning from male to female.

"I went to visit my friend in hospital on Christmas Eve on one of the RD&E wards.

I am always dressed as a woman. I had full make-up. I had my hair on. I am on female hormones and do not have a beard.

"She was in having an operation and there was a nurse in the cubicle. I said 'Happy Christmas' and the nurse replied 'Er...it's a man'.

"I said 'No I'm a transgender woman' and she said 'errgh'."

In the original letter, hospital bosses told Chantelle 'when a person is visited we are advised to address the person as they are seen' - adding that she had been dressed in male clothing.

Chantelle said: "I am always dressed as a woman. I had full make-up. I had my hair on. I am on female hormones and do not have a beard.

"I am very surprised that this is how I have been treated. They are usually very good and treat me properly. But this is just ridiculous."

In a statement from the hospital, Em Wilkinson-Brice, Deputy Chief Executive and Chief Nurse said: "We are always sorry to hear when a patient or visitor is unhappy with their experience at the RD&E.

"In this case we have investigated the complaint and apologised for any offence caused.

"We are keen to speak with Ms Saunders to explore how we can resolve any remaining issues she has.

"All staff at the RD&E undergo equality and diversity training as standard, reflecting the importance we place on the value of inclusion and collaboration."