SECAmb torchbearers speak of their pride

23 July 2012

Two South East Coast Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SECAmb) paramedics and a community first responder have spoken of their pride after taking part in the Olympic Torch Relay.

Hastings Paramedic Practitioner, Jeannette Yeoell, and Clinical Team Leader, Paul Everest, carried the Torch through Bexhill on Tuesday, 17 July, while Horsham and Southwater community first responder, Andrew Clarke, had his moment in the spotlight earlier in Weymouth on Friday, 13 July.

Jeannette was chosen for her heroism, when in November 2009 she broke down the door to a burning house in St Leonard’s on Sea to rescue an elderly woman.

Paul was nominated for helping people with special needs and learning difficulties to take up judo, having spent 25 years in the sport.

And community first responder, Andrew, was nominated through his company, LloydsTSB, for his commitment and dedication since joining the voluntary Horsham and Southwater community first responder scheme in 2008.

Staff in SECAmb’s Sussex control centre in Lewes also had their own special torch viewing when torchbearer, Ben Feist, a student nurse and St John Ambulance volunteer from the University of Brighton kindly visited after completing his leg of the relay through the town.

Jeanette, who received the Olympic Flame from comedian and local celebrity, Eddie Izzard, said: “It was absolutely thrilling and took my breath away. The crowds were amazing and I’d like to say a big thank you to everyone who came out and cheered and made the day for me.”

Paul was equally thrilled and said: “It was phenomenal. I’d been watching it on the TV in the lead up but it wasn’t until I actually did it that I had any idea of what it would be like. I was stunned by the public response. People were calling my name and taking my photo which was amazing. The only thing I wish is that it could have gone on for longer.”

Andrew, added: “It was a very special day and one that I will always remember. The support from my family and the locals was great with a real celebrity feel in having my photograph taken constantly and people congratulating me on being chosen as a torchbearer. I even had people asking me for my autograph! Since the day I’ve visited three schools to talk to them about the day and to show them the torch. The children absolutely loved it and it has given further opportunity to spread the word about CFRs.”