AFTER two successful careers totalling 43 years, paramedic Gerard Wild has retired.

Before joining the ambulance service, Mr Wild, 63, was a tank driver with the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards -serving in Catterick Garrison, Cyprus, North Africa and Germany.

During his 18 years in the Army, he qualified as a first aid instructor, which paved the way for his second 25-year career.

He said: "I spent my last months in the Army based at the regimental medical centre at Catterick -getting even with everyone by giving them injections."

He joined the ambulance service at Richmond, where he remained, and both his careers were crowned with long-service and exemplary conduct medals.

He said: "I have really enjoyed the ambulance work. No two call-outs are ever the same, so you are always kept on your toes.

"I do not think I could have survived for so long without the magnificent support of my wife, Jacqui. She has been wonderful."

An accomplished cartoonist, he frequently put his skills to good use, supporting worthy causes. Three years ago, he published Doorstep Deliveries, a book of his own cartoons, which raised more than £1,300 for Children in Need.

He said: "I have always loved drawing. For me, it is a means of relaxation. We all tend to take ourselves rather seriously, and occasionally, a clever cartoon can prick the bubble.

"I also used them when I was an ambulance trainer. If you can convert dry, technical data into something humorous, it makes facts easier to stick."

A farewell party was held at Richmond Golf Club, where colleagues presented Mr Wild with gift vouchers and a gold pocket watch.

Mr and Mrs Wild live in Richmond. They have four children -Gary, Joanne, Georgina and Jonathan.