Passing of former colleagues Bill and Albert

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The Trust is sad to inform staff of the passing of former colleagues Bill Tillett, from Essex, and Albert Forder, from Norfolk.

Bill joined the ambulance service in Essex back in 1964 when they were run by county councils, and stayed until 1990 when he retired at 64. Bill worked across Essex over the course of his career, ranging everywhere from Colchester and Clacton through to Witham and South Woodham Ferrers. A valued member of the Essex team, Bill also spent time running training in the control room and delivering first-aid to community groups. His final posting was in north-east Essex.

Bill’s family have welcomed Trust staff to attend the funeral, which is on 18th February at 11:45am at Colchester Crematorium, Mersea Road, Colchester and have asked staff to wear uniform. Any donations will be given to Essex Air Ambulance.

Albert was a much-loved member of the service, who retired from ambulance life 14 years ago. Originally working in Thetford as an ambulance man and then station officer, he later moved to work in Norwich’s Bethel Street and Bracondale. Completely committed to the medical profession, his total service spanned an astonishing 35 years, and he dedicated almost 50 years to St John Ambulance.

As soon as the Trust receives the details for Albert’s funeral they will be shared here on Need to Know.

Chief Executive Anthony Marsh said: “The ambulance service often feels like one big ‘family’, and it’s terribly sad when we lose one of our own, whether they are colleagues past or present.

“I knew Bill personally, and he was an absolute role model to me when I was an operational technical and paramedic more than 25 years ago. I know he will be sorely missed. In turn, everything I have been told about Albert by those who knew him shows that he was nothing other than a gentleman, friend, and valued colleague to so many people.

“I know all our thoughts and best wishes will be with Albert and Bill’s friends and family at this sad time.”

Published 5th February, 2015

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