A COUNTY Durham woman has become the youngest ever critical care paramedic for the Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS) – after being inspired by her father’s kind act that saved the life of a stranger when she was younger

Hollie Smith from Chester-Le-Street joined the charity last month after nine years with the North East Ambulance Service (NEAS), which saw her gain vital experience in the medical field.

The 28-year-old, who immediately applied to become a paramedic after leaving school and worked in a GP surgery as a receptionist until she landed a position with NEAS, said she was inspired to help others by her father’s Good Samaritan act several years ago.

Read more: Stanley goes pink for funeral of 12-year-old Leah Robshaw

She said: “It always stuck with me. He was driving along the motorway and watched a lorry hit a convertible that was sat in the hard shoulder. The lady was severely injured, so my dad got out and ran to help.

“She was losing blood heavily, so he made a tourniquet out of his top and stayed with her until paramedics arrived, which ultimately saved her life and stopped her from losing so much blood.”

After undergoing a rigorous recruitment process at GNAAS, which included a length interview, the paramedic was offered the job as part of the Eaglescliffe-based charity’s recent intake.

The Northern Echo: Hollie joins GNAAS from the North East Ambulance Service, where she worked for nine years. Picture: GNAAS.Hollie joins GNAAS from the North East Ambulance Service, where she worked for nine years. Picture: GNAAS.

She added: “The interview was three hours long. It was the longest and most intense three hours of my life.

“Afterwards, my partner took me out for some drinks to take my mind off things and I was just drinking my first margarita when the phone rang - it was GNAAS’ director of operations, Andy Mawson.

“Andy said I absolutely smashed it. My partner’s eyes were watering as I was on the phone although he swears this didn’t happen.”

Read more: 'Disneyworld' Darlington railway heritage attraction progresses

Picking up her critical care GNAAS uniform was a defining moment for Hollie, who says she still didn’t believe she had got the job until that moment.

Hollie said: “When I saw my name printed on the top, I was just completely over the moon.

“On my first day I was so nervous especially when I came in and seen the helicopter up close and personal. Luckily, it was a good clear day, and I was with an experienced pilot, so I felt safe and in good hands.

The Northern Echo: The 28-year-old becomes the youngest paramedic on the critical care team. Picture: GNAAS.The 28-year-old becomes the youngest paramedic on the critical care team. Picture: GNAAS.

“I feel so lucky to be here. I still don’t think it’s real and feel quite overwhelmed because I am surrounded by people who are at the top of their game.”

GNAAS’ director of operations, Andy Mawson, said: “During the selection process Hollie showed massive determination and capability. We know she will be a great part of the team.”

Keep up to date with all the latest news on our website, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

You can also follow our dedicated County Durham Facebook page for all the latest in the area by clicking here.

For all the top news updates from right across the region straight to your inbox, sign up to our newsletter here.

Have you got a story for us? Contact our newsdesk on newsdesk@nne.co.uk or contact 01325 505054