Ambulance chief awarded King's medal

Mark Mapp was awarded the King's Ambulance Medal by the Princess Royal at Windsor Castle

One of Guernsey's health chiefs has been awarded the King's Ambulance Medal (KAM).

Mark Mapp, the CEO of Ambulance and Rescue and Guernsey's chief ambulance officer, was presented with the medal by the Princess Royal in a ceremony at Windsor Castle.

Mr Mapp said he "felt deeply privileged" to be among individuals from across the country and the Commonwealth "who had been recognised for their outstanding contributions".

The KAM is presented to ambulance staff in recognition of "distinguished service".

'Can hardly comprehend'

The medal aligns with other awards such as the King's Fire Service Medal and the King's Police Medal to honour people working in the emergency services for their contributions.

Mr Mapp said: "The ceremony was nothing like I expected. I thought everyone would be in one room together and we'd be called up one by one, but it is just you and your family, the Princess Royal and her guards.

"I can hardly comprehend the significance of the occasion - it's only when I look back at the photos that I truly believe I was there and that it actually happened."

'Truly honoured'

Mr Mapp's connection to St John Guernsey started as a 15-year-old when he joined as a cadet.

He qualified as a paramedic with Ambulance and Rescue where he worked for 13 years and he continued part-time when he joined Health and Social Care.

Mr Mapp was appointed as chief ambulance officer in 2019 and continues to work as a paramedic from time to time.

Talking about his career, he said: "I am truly honoured I have been fortunate to have worked with so many dedicated individuals committed to delivering care and compassion to islanders in their time of need."