WightSAR’s Dean Terrett and the Isle of Wight Ambulance Service’s Louise Walker are among those named on The King’s New Year Honours List, recognising their contribution to Island life. It has been revealed tonight (Friday) that for services to search and rescue on the Isle of Wight, the chair of WightSAR, Dean Terrett, is to receive a British Empire Medal (BEM). Dean leads a dedicated team of volunteers in assisting Police with searches for vulnerable missing people and other time-critical incidents, such as looking for stolen money and drugs washed ashore. WightSAR was established in 2011 thanks to the efforts of Dean and counterparts in Hampshire, who helped development the team after a search of Parkhurst Forest in 2008. Dean is the chair and founder of the local charity. 
Meanwhile, Louise Walker, Head of Education, Training and Engagement for the Isle of Wight Ambulance Service, has been awarded the King’s Ambulance Service Medal (KAM) for distinguished service.
Louise, who was born on the Island and grew up in Cowes, has worked in the NHS for over 23 years. Following a nursing career in paediatrics, the Emergency Department and as a Resuscitation Officer, Louise moved to work for the Isle of Wight Ambulance Service 11 years ago.
When she started there were only 11 public access defibrillators (PADs), thanks to Louise’s dedication and hard work, the Island now has almost 100 ambulance owned PADs, over 400 privately owned PADs and Louise is recognised as a national expert in this field.
Speaking about her medal, Louise has said:
“To receive this award is such a privilege and I feel extremely humbled.
“I’m incredibly grateful to be part of this team who work so hard, I do a job I love and work with the most wonderful people. It’s all for the community we live and work in, and for the island that I grew up on and I love.”
Another Islander to be recognised is Diana O’Grady (pictured right), who has also been awarded a BEM for services to the community in Arreton. For services to wildlife and the natural environment, the Chief Executive of the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, Deborah Tann, is to receive a MBE. Those recognised will receive their medals from King Charles at some point in 2024, with BEMs presented locally by the Lord Lieutenant, Susie Sheldon.
