(WEST MIDLAND AMBULANCE SERVICE) – One of Birmingham’s much loved ‘Emergency Bikers’ is hanging up his leathers later today after more than 36 years’ service. Motorcycle Paramedic Steve Harris, affectionately known as Forrest by colleagues as well as fans of Channel 5’s Emergency Bikers, is working his last shift today before he officially retires from the service.

He joined the Trust in 1978 and has worked an impressive 18 years as a motorcycle paramedic. Over the years Steve has provided patient care to thousands of people in Birmingham City Centre and beyond.

Steve, 62 from Smethwick, said: “I’ve decided that now is the right time for me to slow down so today I officially retire from full time work. I’ve enjoyed all my time working for the Trust, the people I meet, the job I do and especially the motorcycle. This role has been fantastic.” Despite the decision to take life at a slower pace from now on, Steve can’t quite let go just yet and will be returning later in the year to be a part time biker paramedic.

Talking about his last full time shift earlier today, Steve said: “I’ve got mixed feelings about today; it’s going to be a bit of a wrench clocking off tonight. Being officially retired is going to be something different for me to get used to. It’s certainly going to be odd not seeing fellow bikers Mark and Steve as often but I’m sure I’ll bump into them when I return part-time in September.” See Steve Harris video here:

Dax Morris, the Trust’s Area Manager for Birmingham South, said: “To complete 36 years’ service in the same organisation is a fantastic achievement. I’d like to thank Steve for his many years of dedication, hard work and commitment to patient care. It truly is commendable and something he should be very proud of.”
Tuesday 29^th July 2014 – 3.30pm – Claire Brown.