An veteran pilot has announced his retirement after 18 years in service with the East Anglian Air Ambulance.

Stationed in Norfolk, Captain Steve Norris provided essential emergency medical services around the clock while piloting EAAA’s Anglia One helicopter.

Its longest-serving pilot, for almost two decades he has been part of the charity's Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) providing advanced critical care 24/7 for 365 days a year.

He joined the charity in 2006 following a career in the military. During his tenure, he was named Pilot of the Year by the Association of Ambulances in 2016.

With an admirable aviation career trailing him, he has logged more than 12,000 landings and piloted approximately 3,800 missions.

He is also the second-longest serving HEMS pilot in the UK.

The East Anglia Air Ambulance, piloted by Steve NorrisThe East Anglia Air Ambulance, piloted by Steve Norris (Image: Newsquest)

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Reflecting on his time, he said: "It’s nice to go home knowing how much we have been able to help people.

"The missions are very special as they are made possible by public support, which is something I’ll always remember.

"Thanks to public support and kindness, EAAA can take advanced skills, equipment and medicine directly the scene of medical emergencies to give people have the best chance of survival."

He added: "Certain tasks and patients really standout in my memory.

“Many people treated by EAAA have visited our base with their loved ones to meet the crew after their incident; these moments are incredibly special.”

“I will miss working on HEMS missions and will look back on my 18 years [here] fondly.”

Matthew Jones, EAAA's chief executive, said Captain Steve was an "exemplary HEMS pilot" who always prioritised the community.

Chloe Barker, managing director for the charity's aviation partner Babcock, also recognised his significant contributions.

She added: "He will be greatly missed, and we wish him every success and happiness going forwards.

"He has helped save thousands of lives and should be immensely proud of the contribution he has made to the East Anglian region.”