An emergency medical dispatcher has won an award for her "unwavering compassion and commitment".

Annette Clark, who has worked at the East of England Ambulance Service for 15 years, was named the EMD of the Year at the International Academy of Emergency Dispatch Awards.

She works at the Emergency Operations Centre in Hellesdon, Norwich.

She also received a Diamond Call Handling Compliance Award for her excellence in handling 999 calls.

Annette achieved more than 500 highly compliant calls, a record number at the trust.

READ MORE: Norfolk archery club's application given go-ahead for range

Annette Clark said: “Receiving this award is truly an honour and I know how competitive the award was from the calibre of my colleagues who were also nominated.

“When I first began in 2009, I was stepping in to a world I knew nothing about.

"I was wanting to be a part of something meaningful; for my work to have a purpose.

"All of this I've done in more ways than I could ever have imagined, so coming this far and winning EMD of the year means so much to me."

Liam Walker, senior emergency operations centre manager for training and education, said: “Annette is one of our exceptional EMDs, having dedicated over 15 years to the Trust.

"Throughout her career in the EOC, she has delivered babies, saved lives, and supported patients during their most challenging moments with unwavering compassion and commitment.

"She is an invaluable asset to EEAST and embodies our values every day.”

READ MORE: Illuminated steam train for adults returning to Norfolk railway

Deputy chief of clinical operations, Rachael Edwards, said: “Congratulations to Annette and all our finalists who should all take pride in their achievements.

"Our EOC teams work tirelessly and often find themselves helping their communities during very challenging moments.

"To be recognised by the IAED and to receive a Diamond Call Handling Compliance Award is remarkable, and I am proud of Annette.

"Thank you for choosing a career in our EOC.”