A PARAMEDIC who was determined to get the job she wanted, has retired after nearly 35 years of rushing to peoples' aid.

Marilyn Allen, 60, started her career in the ambulance service in patient transport 38 years ago, as that was as close as women could get to the front line at that time, but when the Equal Rights Act came into force in 1974, nothing could stop Marilyn from getting the job she wanted.

Marilyn, from Buckland Monachorum, said: 'I wrote to the chief — Mr Capel, and quoted the act to him.

'The chief was very supportive and spoke to the divisional commander, who wasn't very happy about it. So he sent me out of the way to Tavistock where I have been for more than 35 years.

'He did me a great favour in the end, I've loved every minute of it. I've enjoyed the work, the people, and I've been very lucky.'

Marilyn said that before retiring, working nights and shifts had been wearing her out so now she will have time to do things she enjoys.

'I like playing golf, walking on the moors, playing bridge and I'm a parish councillor so I will have time to do all these things now.

'After Christmas I'll do a few volunteer days for the National Trust and do some volunteer driving for Age Concern UK.'