Ambulance service celebrates double win at national awards ceremony
Date: 4 July 2025The East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust (EEAST) is celebrating after winning two national awards for people working in emergency services control rooms.
EEAST is celebrating after winning two national awards for people working in emergency services control rooms.
At the Control Room Awards 2025, held on Thursday 3 July, colleagues from EEAST picked up two awards, and were a finalist in a third category.
Keith Legresley, a Critical Care Desk dispatcher in Chelmsford EOC, received the Lifetime Achievement Award. With a career spanning over three decades, Keith has been a cornerstone of EEAST's critical care operations. His dedication, deep knowledge and calm professionalism have been instrumental in dispatching air ambulances to the most critically unwell patients, saving countless lives across the region.
EOC Retention, Health and Wellbeing Co-ordinator Keri Drury was awarded the prestigious John Gilhooly Award. This accolade recognises her unwavering commitment to supporting colleagues through challenging times. Keri's selflessness, compassion, and genuine passion for helping others have made her a vital source of strength and care within the Trust.
Courtney Hoare, a call handler in Chelmsford EOC, was a proud finalist for Control Room Ambassador of the Year. Courtney was shortlisted as a shining example of someone who continuously goes above and beyond her duties.
Neill Moloney, Chief Executive, congratulated all three staff members, saying: "The whole Trust is incredibly proud of Keith, Keri and Courtney. Their achievements reflect the very best of EEAST – compassion, commitment, and excellence in service. Keith’s lifetime of dedication, Keri’s heartfelt support for her colleagues, and Courtney’s exemplary performance are all truly inspiring. These recognitions are richly deserved, and we celebrate them with immense pride."
The Control Room Awards shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes behind the scenes of emergency services. More details about the awards can be found here.
Photo caption: Keri Drury, EOC Retention, Health and Wellbeing Coordinator at EEAST, collects the John Gilhooly Award.
