Twin brothers recognised for more than a decade of life-saving ambulance volunteer service

Dean and Ryan Appleton, 37-year-old identical twins, have each been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) for their outstanding voluntary service as community first responders (CFRs).

Dean and Ryan both began their journey with EEAST in 2013 when they established the Clacton-on-Sea CFR group. Their dedication to supporting local communities continued as they moved to Colchester in 2015. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, both stepped up to provide vital assistance to patients during an unprecedented time of need.

In 2020, Ryan moved to the Nayland CFR group in Suffolk, and Dean moved to the Tiptree group.

Since joining EEAST as volunteers, the pair have responded to thousands of 999 calls, providing immediate care and reassurance to patients before ambulance crews arrive.

Ryan Appleton said: "It's an incredible honour to receive this recognition. Volunteering as a community first responder has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Knowing that we can make a difference in those critical moments is what drives us to keep going. The support we've had from team leaders and other volunteer responders at EEAST over the years has been phenomenal."

Dean Appleton added: "We started this journey because we wanted to help our community, and we've responded to thousands of patients over more than a decade of volunteering. This honour means so much to us, but it's also a recognition of everyone who gives their time to support patients and save lives."

Neill Moloney, EEAST chief executive officer, said: "On behalf of everyone at the East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust, I want to congratulate Ryan and Dean on their well-deserved honours for their extraordinary voluntary service. They are both testament to the commitment and dedication all our volunteers show each and every day, in communities across the east of England."

CFRs are volunteers trained by EEAST to attend certain types of medical emergencies in their local area, providing life-saving interventions and support before an ambulance arrives. If you are interested in becoming a CFR, or volunteering in another way for the ambulance service, go to our website.

Photo caption: Ryan (left) and Dean Appleton have been volunteering together for the East of England Ambulance Service for over a decade.