SAS Paramedic Becomes First Female State Trumpeter

A paramedic in the Scottish Ambulance Service’s Special Operation Response Team (SORT) has become the first female trumpeter of His Majesty’s State Trumpeters of Scotland.

Gerry Goodall, who works out of SORT’s Newbridge base, joined the Service 14 years ago after serving in the army for nine years.

In March she was invited to attend an interview by the country’s Lead State Trumpeter, Stewart Malcolm.

Successful at the interview, her first assignment was the General Assembly for the Church of Scotland in Edinburgh, attended by Prince Edward, on Saturday (18 May).

Alongside three other State Trumpeters, she welcomed and farewelled the Duke of Edinburgh. She was also recognised at the first female State Trumpeter for Scotland and received an official decree.

The mum of two girls said: “It was an honour and a privilege to be asked. I was really happy and felt quite a sense of achievement as well. Having my career as a paramedic, I almost left that world so it’s quite nice to be back involved again in ceremonial events. The kids and family are also chuffed. They are proud, my work colleagues are really proud, and everyone is really supportive.”

Having played the trumpet since she was seven, she went on to study at the Royal Military School of Music before she served in the army as a musician.

After leaving the army, she joined the Service, starting out in patient transport in Galashiels, before she completed her technician course working out of Dalkeith. She joined SORT two years ago, now working out of ECHO team.

SAS Chief Executive Michael Dickson said: “This is an amazing achievement from Gerry and on behalf of everyone at the Scottish Ambulance Service we congratulate her on becoming the first female State Trumpeter for Scotland.”