AN inspiring retired paramedic from Wickford has received an honour from the King.

David Dean, 60, has been awarded the King’s Ambulance Service Medal (KAM) for his life-saving work with the East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust.

In addition to his frontline duties, Mr Dean also mentored newly-qualified paramedics and students starting their careers.

The 60-year-old served as a paramedic in the Essex area for 36 years, before recently retiring in March.

Mr Dean said: "When I first heard about the award I was surprised and humbled at being nominated.

"It has been an amazing 36 years working on the front line of the ambulance service, the job has changed immeasurably since I started, especially the level of care and treatment we can give to our patients in the field which is saving lives everyday.

"I am proud to accept this award on behalf of all the hard working ambulance crews who on a daily basis put themselves in danger to help other people without any recognition."

One of his colleagues, Lisa Fautley, head of clinical operations for Mid and South Essex, praised Dean's dedication.

She said: "I am delighted to see David recognised with a KAM for his service at EEAST.

"He was a truly professional and dedicated employee for over 36 years, who provided outstanding and first class pre-hospital emergency care to thousands of patients in their time of most need.

"He has demonstrated loyalty to the ambulance service and his colleagues, and he was a highly respected individual throughout his career.

"I want to congratulate him on this huge achievement, it is well-deserved."

The King's Ambulance Service Medal, formerly the Queen's Ambulance Service Medal, is awarded to members of the NHS Ambulance Service in the United Kingdom, Isle of Man and Channel Islands for distinguished service.

It was introduced in July 2011 and first awarded during the 2012 Birthday Honours.