Paul Ross, who lives and works in the town, was among a total of 39 ambulance staff recognised for their loyalty and commitment by Sir Paul Nicholson, Co Durham's Lord Lieutenant at a recent ceremony in Darlington.

Paul, who received a 30 year certificate, said his most memorable occasion since joining the service was saving a baby from choking on his way to work.

Paul said: "It was very frightening, but I just did what I had to do and luckily managed to save the baby; that was very rewarding.

"I think the ambulance is unrecognisable to the service it was 30 years ago. The skills that I have learnt in 30 years are phenomenal. Still, to this day, the skills, training and knowledge we need to do the job keep changing and we need to adapt, but it is very rewarding, albeit challenging."

Speaking at the ceremony, Sir Paul said: "It's a great honour being asked to present awards to so many people who dedicate their lives to the patients and public of the north east."

NEAS chief executive, Simon Featherstone, added: "This presentation ceremony is one of the occasions when the ambulance service has the opportunity to praise and award its staff for their dedication and commitment.

"Some of the staff have been working on front line duties providing their local communities with vital emergency services, others have been working behind the scenes providing vital support to the organisation and it is fitting that their hard work should be acknowledged in this way. We are very proud."