Salisbury paramedic recognised for 40 years of service to the community

Roland Revell has worked in Salisbury since starting his career in 1976 and received a 40 years service award at the South Western Ambulance Service’s staff and volunteer award ceremonies.

Roland said: "It is nice that I have been recognised, it is quite an achievement."

Roland worked as an ambulance technician for 16 years before qualifying as a paramedic in 1992.

During his career he has taken on the roles of leading ambulance manager and clinical team leader. He has also been part of the Wiltshire Air Support Unit.

Before joining the ambulance service Roland worked as a picture framer when he left school.

"I've always enjoyed helping people," he said.

"I do feel happy that I have helped all these people over the years.

"I'm grateful for the support of my family over the 40 years. Without their support I couldn't have done it."

The chief executive of the trust, Ken Wenman, said: “Whether they are working on the front line, or supporting our paramedics behind the scenes, our staff and volunteers do fantastic work every day.

“These award ceremonies are our way of saying thank you to those who have gone above and beyond their remit to deliver outstanding patient care and to those who have shown exceptional dedication to their role, the Trust and those they care for through their long service.

“Everyone who received an award at one of our divisional ceremonies should quite rightly be commended but there are a few people who really do deserve to be singled out for praise."

He said: “Reaching the 40 year milestone in any job is an impressive feat but to do so in a front line role, dealing with life threatening situations day in, day out is a remarkable personal achievement."