Two members of the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT) from Cornwall have been recognised in the King’s New Year Honours for their exceptional service.
Christopher Mann, a Paramedic with over 20 years’ experience, has received the King’s Ambulance Medal (KAM). His award highlights his dedication, professionalism and commitment to both patient care and colleague welfare.
Chris was nominated for the King’s Ambulance Medal while serving as an Operations Officer at Falmouth Ambulance Station. In this role, he consistently supported staff wellbeing, development and morale. Over more than two decades, he has gained a reputation as a calm, compassionate and reliable leader whose influence has positively shaped organisational culture in Cornwall.
Throughout his career, Chris has been known for helping colleagues navigate professional and personal challenges. He is recognised for conducting honest and compassionate conversations and prioritising the needs of others.
Currently, Chris is a Trainee Specialist Paramedic in Urgent and Emergency Care (SPUEC), with training scheduled to conclude in 2027. His progression into specialist paramedic training demonstrates his ongoing commitment to improving patient outcomes and delivering the right care, in the right place, at the right time.
The King’s Ambulance Medal is awarded to a small and select group of ambulance personnel who have shown exceptional dedication, skill and conduct within NHS ambulance services.
Chris said: “I am incredibly honoured and humbled to receive this award. I feel very fortunate to work alongside so many dedicated and inspiring colleagues over the years. Serving the communities of Cornwall is a privilege, and I remain passionate about continuing to support patients and colleagues.”
Stephen Farbrother, a volunteer Community First Responder (CFR) from Gorran Haven, has been awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) for over 15 years of voluntary service.
Stephen, aged 74, has been a member of SWASFT since May 2009, giving his time as a solo CFR in his village. Community First Responders attend certain emergency 999 calls in their local areas, often providing lifesaving intervention before an ambulance arrives.
Despite facing personal challenges, including the loss of his wife and periods of ill health, Stephen has continued to put others first. Beyond his CFR duties, he has supported local fundraising, delivered papers for more than 20 years, driven the village bus and checked in on vulnerable residents.
Stephen said: “I was shocked, surprised and truly humbled when I heard about the nomination. I have always enjoyed being a Community First Responder, but I’ve never thought of myself as anything more than a very small part of a great team. Supporting my local community has never been about recognition; it’s about being there for people when they need help most, offering time, care and reassurance. To be nominated for a British Empire Medal is an incredible honour, and one I share with everyone I have had the privilege of working alongside over the years.”
Wayne Darch MBE, Director of Operations – South at SWASFT, said: “Both Christopher and Stephen exemplify the very best of our ambulance service and the communities we serve. Chris’s King’s Ambulance Medal recognises not only his excellent clinical background, but the extraordinary care, leadership and compassion he has shown in supporting colleagues throughout his career.
Stephen’s British Empire Medal is a powerful recognition of more than 15 years of selfless voluntary service, and of the vital role Community First Responders play in supporting patients in their local communities.
We are immensely proud of them both and grateful for the difference they continue to make to patients across Cornwall. I know colleagues across the Trust will join me in congratulating them on their very well-deserved honours.”
Christopher Mann and Stephen Farbrother will collect their awards in 2026.
