HADDINGTON ambulance technician John Rudyj has been a real inspiration to the community over 44 years of service.

Based out of the Haddington station, John has watched the service grow and change over four decades before he retired last month.

The hard-working and devoted member of the ambulance team, now 66, was nominated for his commitment to the service and his eagerness to educate younger members of staff over the years.

John picked up the Health & Care Award, with the Harlawhill Day Care Centre in Prestonpans, the out-patient endoscopy nursing team at East Lothian Community Hospital and The Haven wellbeing and resilience service in Tranent finishing as runners up.

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Speaking on his retirement and his time in the service, the Haddington resident told the Courier: “It was a very difficult decision to retire but it felt like the right time. But I will be doing voluntary and charity work now that I am retired so I will be kept busy!

“I will miss the job. Every day you go out and the job is different, every patient is different and every scenario is different. You have good days and bad days, it’s a very stressful job at times but it is the best job.

“Mental health issues are through the roof at the moment and I know that is a big task facing emergency services.”

John spoke warmly of the work he did, particularly his role in educating younger staff members, and how the industry has evolved.

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He said: “I enjoyed teaching some of the younger staff about things and the job. It’s changed massively.

“When we first started, you were sent out on your own. Now you are double crewed, have better equipment, get better training and it’s far more efficient.

“It has vastly changed for the better and the care is getting better all the time.

“I will miss it but I am looking forward to some time off now!

“It feels tremendous to win this award. There are that many good folk in the final, it’s a honour to get this award. I’m shocked, really stunned.”