Our Chief Executive pays tribute to paramedic who had “boundless positivity and charisma”

It is with great sadness that I announce the death of our colleague Brett Swinyard, who passed away in hospital on 25 January following a sudden but brief illness.

Brett, who was 59, joined London Ambulance Service in 1984 and over his 37 years as a frontline paramedic he was known for his boundless positivity and charisma.

Brett spent his entire time in LAS in the north east of the capital – predominantly at our Newham Group and latterly out of Romford Group.

His colleagues recall his great sense of humour and how his presence in the mess room made it a warmer, friendlier place.

Brett encompassed all the best qualities of a member of London Ambulance Service staff. He made the LAS a better place and made coming to work more enjoyable for huge numbers of people.

Many of our colleagues will have been supported and helped by Brett over the years.

In 2018 Brett retired to spend more time with his family – his wife Ann, their three sons Nick, Christopher and Connor, and grandchildren – but he continued to work part time for LAS, continuing to be a huge positive influence on Romford Group.

Whilst immensely proud of being a London Ambulance Service paramedic, Brett had numerous other creative outputs. He was a keen musician, playing in a successful rock band in his spare time. He also wrote a popular first aid handbook for children aged 7 to 11 years old.

Brett’s passing has left a significant void in Romford Group and across our Service. All our thoughts are with Brett’s family and friends at this difficult time.

Daniel Elkeles, Chief Executive – London Ambulance Service