Queen’s medal for stalwart First Responder

The 53-year-old father of three, of Percy Road, Warwick, has been recognised for his selfless efforts by being awarded the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal for more than five years of service as a CFR.

And what makes the achievement all the more impressive is that Mr Brady was once told he may never be able to work again let alone help others in such an a active way.

He said: “In 1992 I was in a car accident and I was seriously injured.

“I was on crutches for eight-and-a-half years but I wanted to pay something back to the emergency service staff who saved me so I applied to become the first responder for Warwick.

“If there’s no ambulance near an incident we can be the first on the scene before the crew arrives to back us up.

“If there’s nobody else about we can be the difference between life and death.”

Mr Brady, who works for the fleet department of West Midlands Ambulance service based at Rugby Ambulance Station, is the deputy scheme co-ordinator for the newly-formed Warwick District Community First Responders group having covered Warwick for about nine years.

Members work on a voluntary basis and, having received their qualifications from the ambulance service, raise funds for equipment, uniforms and even vehicles.

The emergencies they attend can range from trips and falls to cardiac arrests and road accidents.

Mr Brady said: “I get a lot of satisfaction from helping people and I’m quite chuffed and surprised to have received this medal.

“You can receive one after you’ve served for five years but it still came as a bit of a bolt from the blue.

“To have my work recognised goes a long way for me.”

There are 16 first responders across the district ranging in age from 19 to their 60s.

Paul Rowlands, the scheme co-ordinator, said Mr Brady was like a father figure for younger members and that he had played an important role in establishing the group and is well worthy of receiving the medal.

Mr Rowlands added: “When we put together the group about six months ago I needed somebody I could rely on who had been around for many years.

“Derek is like the focal point for the group and the glue who holds us together.”

For more information about the First Responders click here