North East Ambulance Service (NEAS) celebrated over 60 outstanding staff members at its first in-person awards ceremony in five years.

Alfie Joey, comic and radio presenter, hosted the glittering event which also recognised 99 colleagues for long service totalling 2,410 years.

The awards reflected the achievements of NEAS staff during 2023/24, a year during which the service answered more than 1.1m emergency calls.

Among the winners were Paul Cunningham, John Reed and Paul Richardson, who marked 40 years of service.

Lauren Kay won the Chair’s award  (Image: North East Ambulance Service)

Chief executive Helen Ray said: "Our colleagues at NEAS come to work every day to make a difference.

"Most of them chose a career in the ambulance service because they wanted to play some part in helping people on what might be the worst day of their lives."

Overall winner of the Chair’s award, Lauren Kay, was commended for her commitment, supporting her peers and being a role model for other students.

Deputy Chair John Marshall said: "It’s an honour to mark the achievements of these members of staff who do so much fantastic work and making sure that patients get the best possible care."

Some of the awards were nominated by the public, by patients or their families.