‘It was a very special day that I will never forget’ – Ballindine man’s son receives prestigious King’s Ambulance Medal

THE son of a Ballindine man has been honoured by King Charles for his outstanding service to the NHS London Ambulance Service.

Nigel Flanagan, son of Sean and Maureen Flanagan, was honoured with a medal given only given to those who have shown exceptional devotion to their work and outstanding ability.

In 2009, he set up Operational Christmas Present to help tackle isolation amongst children who are in hospital during the festive season.

Since then, over 26,000 presents have been given out to children who spent Christmas Day away from home.

Nigel has also volunteered his free time visiting more than 400 hospitals, children’s A&Es, hospices, and women and child refugees.

His good deeds were recognised when he received the King’s Ambulance Medal yesterday (Tuesday) from Princess Anne at a ceremony at Windsor Castle.

Nigel’s father Seán, originally from Ballindine, and his Mother Maureen (née Heneghan), a native of Tuam, Co Galway, also attended the ceremony.

“Working shifts, I saw many people experiencing loneliness and isolation,” said Nigel.

“I wanted to make a difference especially during what’s meant to be the season of joy and cheer and that it was incredible to meet Princess Anne, she made me feel so at ease and chatted to me about my charity work in London.”

“As I walked up to the castle and went past all the King’s guards and them saluting me, I started to become emotional. It was a very special day that I will never forget,” he added.

Nigel is from Lingfield, Surrey, and is married to Carly, with whom he has three young children.

He has given of 20 years of service to the London Ambulance Service.

Daniel Elkeles, Chief Executive at The Ambulance Service said: “Nigel embodies the value of our service, with his extraordinary compassion, desire to improve lives, and exemplary clinical care.

“While working hard to care for patients, he sacrifices precious time with his family to make children feel less lonely. Nigel has shown incredible humanity and we are so proud this was recognised by the Royal Family.”