Demobilised from the RAF, Squadron Leader Bridgwater became a GP in Newbridge, Wales.  During his time there he joined the local mountain and colliery rescue teams.  He made lifelong friends with Elwyn Harris with whom he would go running, cycling and swimming on days' off.  

In May 1954 he helped rescue a miner from deep within the colliery after a roof fall.  The National Coal Board commended him for bravery.