NHS workers are recognised for 'lifesaving intervention'

TWO Middlesbrough NHS workers have been recognised for their 'lifesaving' efforts.

- By ANNETTE BELCHER

Redcar station-based paramedic Rachel Clarke and ambulance support practitioner Gary McKenzie were praised for their intervention when they stopped a patient from jumping off a flyover bridge near James Cook University Hospital.

The pair received glowing reports from the North East Ambulance Service (NEAS) judging panel as well as hospital staff and witnesses who watched as they jumped to action to save the person from what would be a catastrophic fall.

Ambulance service workers came together for an inspiring evening of recognition and celebration at the NEAS Awards 2025: In the Spotlight, held at The Grand Hotel Gosforth Park, Newcastle, on Friday.

Hosted by comic and radio presenter Alfie Joey, the event honoured the exceptional achievements of more than 50 staff members, selected from over 430 nominations submitted by colleagues and members of the public. Rachel and Gary, who were crowned winners in the Patients Choice category, received glowing reports from the service's judging panel as well as hospital staff and witnesses who watched as they took swift action to prevent a potential tragedy.

The evening also celebrated the incredible dedication of 120 long-serving employees who between them have given more than 3,000 years of service to the 2.7 million people across the 3,200 square miles that NEAS proudly serves. The awards recognised contributions from across the 2024/25 period - a year in which NEAS answered over 1.4 million emergency 999 and NHS 111 calls, transported more than 288,000 patients to hospital, provided telephone-based care to 139,700 patients, and delivered treatment in homes and communities to a further 139,000 people.