THE hardworking team which sprung into action when tragedy struck at last year’s Chard Carnival have been named as finalists in the Air Ambulance Awards of Excellence.

More than 300 guests celebrated the best and brightest from the air ambulance community on November 12, with the national awards show hosted by Richard Madeley and Angellica Bell.

Together they handed out 12 awards to outstanding individuals and teams, whose stories were inspirational, astounding and humbling.

The awards, which are independently judged, went to pilots, paramedics, doctors, fundraisers and volunteers who collected their trophies at a ceremony held on the night.

Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance were shortlisted as finalists in two categories; Air Ambulance Paramedic of the Year and the Air Ambulance Special Incident Award.

It was in this second category that the crew which responded to the Chard Carnival crash were nominated.

A spokesman for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance said: “This incident involved a team being tasked to reports of a female trapped underneath a carnival float in Chard.

“The incident demonstrated the remarkable power of teamwork, meticulous planning, training and experience between all inter-agency services present.

“It was a true example of a patient having an intact ‘Chain of Survival’, from the initial first aid provided, to their post hospital rehabilitation.”

Although the crew just missed out on the special incident prize, Dorset and Somerset’s Mark Williams did end the night as Air Ambulance Paramedic of the Year.

Mark, a critical care practitioner, has worked with the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust for 19 years.

The spokesman added: “Mark’s commitment to patient care, calmness under pressure and extra-ordinary scene management was exemplified earlier this year whilst off duty.

“Travelling home from a family trip, he and his wife (also a paramedic) came across a serious road traffic incident; the result being five critically injured patients.”

Mark and his wife took control of the situation despite having no medical equipment, and treated the seriously injured until emergency services arrived.

Bill Sivewright, Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance chief executive, said: “Mark’s contribution to improving care for critically ill and injured patients is substantial and we are thrilled that this has been recognised at a national level.

“He is a role model for compassionate paramedic practice and is greatly respected within the region.”

Mark said: “I feel absolutely privileged to receive this award.

“It was amazing to be nominated and I didn’t think for one minute that I would win, as there were so many other worthy nominations.

“I am completely overwhelmed; it was very emotional and a very proud moment indeed.”