Month: May 2014

Saturday 31st May 2014  – 9.30pm – Steve Parry.

Three women have been taken to hospital after they were bitten by two dogs in Leominster this evening.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Bridge Street at just after 6.30pm.

Two ambulances, together with a paramedic officer, a paramedic in a rapid response car and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews responded to a serious incident involving two dogs in Leominster.

“A woman in her thirties was treated for significant multiple wounds. She was given pain relief by medics before being airlifted to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham.

“The hospital was alerted to the serious condition of the patient.

“Two other women at the scene also received dog bites. They were treated for minor injuries and taken to Hereford Hospital.

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Friday 30^th May 2014 – 4.15pm – Claire Brown.

A responder paramedic was at an injured man’s side within seconds administering treatment after coming across a road traffic collision in Coventry this afternoon.

The responder paramedic stopped to help after a car collided with a lamp-post at the junction of Gayer Street and Old Church Road just after 12.30pm today (Friday). The responder paramedic was backed up by an ambulance crew.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “The driver and single occupant of the car, a 21 year old man, sustained a leg injury and a suspected fractured pelvis in the collision.

“The paramedic and ambulance crew administered pain relief and oxygen to the man whilst fire fighters carefully extricated him from the wreckage. The man was immobilised with a neck collar, pelvic splint and spinal board before being taken by land ambulance to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire for further emergency treatment.”

 

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Friday 30^th May 2014 – 3.25pm – Claire Brown.

A woman who slipped on mud whilst walking her dog had to been rescued by specialist paramedics in a 6×6 vehicle in Bartley Green this morning.

West Midlands Ambulance Service received a 999 call from a woman who had injured herself whilst walking her dog in Woodgate Valley Country Park, Clapgate Lane, Bartley Green, shortly after 10.00am this morning (Friday).

An ambulance, a responder paramedic, a paramedic area support officer and the Trust’s Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) attended the scene. The Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham was also requested but was later stood down.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “The woman, believed to be in her 60s, had been walking her dog on her own when she slipped on mud at the bottom of a flight of wooden stairs in the country park.

“Ambulance crews walked from the car park, across three football pitches and down the stairs to reach the woman who was in a boggy coppice. Upon assessment, it was found that the woman had sustained a suspected fractured lower leg. The woman was given pain relief and her leg was splinted before she was placed on a lightweight body splint stretcher and carried back up the stairs by ambulance staff.

“HART’s 6×6 polaris vehicle was used to transfer the woman the rest of the way to the awaiting ambulance due to the treacherous condition underfoot and distance from the car park. Once on board the ambulance, the woman was taken to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham for further treatment.”

 

ENDS

Friday 30^th May 2014 – 1.00pm – Claire Brown.

A woman received emergency pre-hospital treatment by the ambulance service before being taken to a major trauma centre following a collision with a lorry in Wednesbury this morning.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to reports of a collision involving a pedestrian and a lorry in High Bullen, Wednesbury, at 10.40am this morning (Friday).Two ambulances, two senior paramedic officers and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford with a MERIT trauma doctor on board were sent to the scene. A local community first responder came across the incident and stopped to render aid.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Upon arrival crews found a woman who had been in collision with a lorry.

“The ambulance staff and doctor immediately commenced emergency treatment on the woman who had sustained multiple traumatic injuries. Crews and the medic worked as a team to administer pain relief, oxygen and administer vital pre-hospital interventions. The woman was taken by land ambulance on blue lights to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, a regional trauma centre, for further emergency treatment.

“The doctor travelled in the ambulance to help continue treatment en route to hospital where, upon arrival, the woman was said to be in a critical condition.

“The lorry driver, a man, was checked over by ambulance staff but was uninjured.”

 

ENDS

 

Thursday 29^th May 2014 – 5.45pm – Jamie Arrowsmith.

A ten-month campaign to ‘Keep Oswestry Alive’ resulted in five life-saving defibrillators being unveiled in the town on Tuesday.

The public access defibrillators have been funded by the community through a variety of fund-raising schemes and donations, led by the Oswestry and Border Chronicle’s campaign, which ran in conjunction with West Midlands Ambulance Service (WMAS) and the British Heart Foundation.

Defibrillators located at the Senior Citizens Club in Lorne Street, Powis Hall, the Wynnstay Hotel in Church Street and the Chronicle Office in Salop Road are accessible 24 hours a day, whilst a fifth device, which is kept in the offices of the Principality Building Society in Leg Street, is available during office hours.

Staff members at all venues have been given training in how to use the devices by WMAS Community Paramedic Officer Terry Foster, who explained the importance of the devices in helping to save lives.

“The quicker a defibrillator shock can be done, the greater chance a patient in cardiac arrest has of surviving.

“For every minute a patient is in cardiac arrest their chance of survival decreases by ten per cent, so the importance of these defibrillators cannot be underestimated.

“The hope is that more towns in Shropshire now follow the lead of Oswestry and start installing public access defibrillators.”

The British Heart Foundation’s Warren Appleby added: “We are delighted to be associated with the campaign and to help provide exactly what is needed in Oswestry, vital equipment in key locations.

“Although we hope it is not needed, this equipment will potentially save lives and we would like to thank everyone who has got involved and helped to raise funds.”

Graham Breeze, Oswestry Chronicle Associate Editor, said: “We are thankful to lots of very generous people for supporting our campaign so well.

“Thanks to a number of donations from local businesses and organisations, together with a variety of fund-raising events, we managed to raise almost £6000 which allowed us to reach our target of purchasing five defibrillators.

“We are also thankful for the marvellous support we have had from West Midlands Ambulance Service throughout the project.”

Ends

Notes to editors:

Picture captions from the top –

Warren Appleby (BHF – left) and Terry Foster (WMAS – right) present Graham Breeze (Oswestry Chronicle – middle) with the defibrillator.

Terry Foster (WMAS – front left) and David Lee-Birch (Oswestry Chronicle – front right) put the defibrillator in place at the Senior Citizens Club in front of (l-r) Warren Appleby (BHF), Ian Morris, Anne Wilson, Mike Smith and Margaret Howell.

Hotel manager Sebastian Siddi (second left) accepts the defibrillator from Terry Foster (WMAS – left), Graham Breeze (Oswestry Chronicle – second right) and Warren Appleby (BHF – right).

Principality Building Society Branch Manager Harriet Fallon (second left) and Sales Negotiator Daniel Graham (middle) take possession of the defibrillator from Graham Breeze (Oswestry Chronicle – left), Terry Foster (WMAS – second right) and Warren Appleby (BHF – right).

From the left  – Mayor of Oswestry John Gareth Jones, Cynthia Hawksley (Chairman of Car Parks and Markets), David Lee-Birch (Oswestry Chronicle), Terry Foster (WMAS), Graham Breeze (Oswestry Chronicle) and Warren Appleby (BHF) put the defibrillator in place at Powis Hall.

All pictures should be credited to West Midlands Ambulance Service.

Thursday 29th May 2014 – 5.15pm – Suzie Fothergill.

Five people have been treated by ambulance staff following a collision involving two cars and a bus in the Black Country today.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the road traffic collision on the Wolverhampton Road West in Walsall shortly before 3.05pm this afternoon.

Three ambulances and a rapid response vehicle attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Crews arrived to find two cars and a bus that had been involved in a collision.

“The driver of one of the cars, a man in his 20’s, was treated for neck and back pain. He was fully immobilised at the scene before being conveyed to Walsall Manor Hospital.

“Four people who were travelling on the bus at the time of the incident were also assessed by ambulance crews. The two men and two women were treated at the scene for minor injuries. One of the patient’s was also treated for pre-existing medical conditions. All four patients were conveyed to Walsall Manor Hospital for further assessment and treatment, as a precaution.

“No one else was injured in the incident.”

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Thursday 29th May 2014 – 8am – Steve Parry.

Three people have been taken to hospital after a road traffic collision in Cannock earlier this morning.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the junction of Walsall Road and Lodge Lane in Cannock at just before 12.10am.

Three ambulances, together with two paramedic officers in rapid response vehicles and the MERIT team attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews responded to a serious road traffic collision involving a car and van.

“A woman driver in her twenties was treated for multiple injuries. She was immobilised with the use of a neck collar and spinal board before being taken to the University Hospital of North Staffordshire.

“The hospital was alerted to the serious condition of the patient.

“A male passenger in the car, believed to be in his thirties, was treated for abdominal, chest and pelvic injuries. He was immobilised and given pain relief before being taken to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham.

“The van driver, a man in his twenties, received minor injuries. He was assessed by ambulance staff at the scene and conveyed to the University Hospital of North Staffordshire as a precaution.”

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Wednesday 28^th May 2014 – 5pm – Jamie Arrowsmith.

A pedestrian was taken to one of the region’s major trauma centres on alert this afternoon (Wednesday) after suffering a serious head injury in a road traffic collision in Birmingham.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the incident in Stuart’s Road, Stechford, shortly before 1.45pm and sent an ambulance, a paramedic area support officer and a community paramedic to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival, crews discovered a woman, in her 50s, who had been in collision with a car that was reportedly reversing at the time of the incident.

“She had suffered a significant head injury in the collision which ambulance staff quickly began to treat.

“After her condition was stabilised she was immobilised and transported to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, who were alerted to the woman’s condition prior to arrival.

“The driver of the car was unhurt in the incident.”

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Wednesday 28^th May 2014 – 12.00noon – Claire Brown.

Ambulance staff moved in with their fire service colleagues in Aston last week, marking the start of a new and exciting era of joint partnership working.

After more than 60 years of calling Henrietta Street Ambulance Station home, ambulance staff based there moved one and a half miles away into a newly refurbished hub on the site of Aston Fire Station on Wednesday 21^st May. The hub is on the 1^st floor of a building adjacent to the fire service facilities and is self-contained comprising a mess room, dining room, kitchen, locker rooms, toilets, showers, office space and car parking bays for ten ambulance vehicles.

West Midlands Fire Service has provided the Trust with the temporary accommodation whilst negotiations continue to build a new joint hub in Aston which could be up and running in about three years’ time.

Tony Iommi, the Trust’s Assistant Area Manager for Birmingham Central, said: “The move from Henrietta Street to Aston couldn’t have gone any better. It’s a real testament to the meticulous planning, hard work and professionalism of everyone involved in the project, both from the fire service and ambulance service.

“It goes without saying that moving out of Henrietta Street was emotive, as it’s been part of the Trust for such a long time, but I’m confident staff will settle in well at Aston. For many staff, it’s going to mean working alongside the firefighters they’ve been bumping into at jobs for years! The hub is fresh, clean and modern with comfortable facilities for staff and is a world of difference their previous home which was in a state of disrepair.

“Thank you to West Midlands Fire Service for providing this fantastic facility, they’ve done a fantastic job and have pulled out all the stops. It’s a privilege to be sharing a site with our emergency service colleagues. We were very grateful for the warm welcome provided by Station Commander Rob and his fire colleagues on Wednesday morning. Bringing the services together on one site is definitely the way forward and we’re already planning some joint exercises to further improve our interoperability.”

Rob Woolley, West Midlands Fire Service’s Station Commander in Aston, said: “The facility has been transformed, in a relatively short space of time, from a tired and empty building into a really smart hub for the ambulance service.

“I’ve already formed strong relationships with Tony and his colleagues during the refurbishment and I’m excited about the future. Personally, I like busy stations as it’s good to see lots of people about so I’m looking forward to our two services getting to know each other and hopefully, learning from one another along the way.”

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

• Henrietta Street Ambulance Station went up for sale in Summer 2013 for offers in the region of £475,000 and is currently under offer.
• There are 44 operational firefighters, two non-operational staff and two appliances based at Aston Fire Station.
• There are 68 ambulance staff and 9 ambulances based at Aston hub.
• The Trust’s three motorcycle paramedics, who were based at Henrietta Street, have relocated to a response post in Tower Hill, Great Barr.

Group photo in front of vehicles: (Front) Assistant Area Manager Tony Iommi and Station Commander Rob Woolley. (Back left to right): Paramedics Alice Whitfield, Adam Aston and Mic Hall, WMAS Staff Side Rep and technician Corrie Martin, Firefighter Jez Boxley, Area Commander Steve Vincent, Firefighter Rohan Hazel, Chair of WMFS Authority Cllr John Edwards, Group Commander Dave Boucher and Crew Commander Mark Woodward.

 

 

 

Wednesday 28^th May 2014 – 10.15am – Suzie Fothergill.

Student paramedics at Staffordshire University will be able to experience patient-handling and care skills in a fully-operational ambulance, which has been kitted-out to bring the highest level of reality to the student experience.

The ambulance, previously in operational use with the West Midlands Ambulance Service, has been purchased by tutors for the two-year Foundation Degree in Paramedic Science in order to bridge the gap between theory and practice.

Mark Garratt, Senior Lecturer Paramedic Science in the School of Social Work, Allied and Public Health, at the University, said: “Our students learn lifesaving and patient care techniques in the classroom to the highest standard, but a classroom is not where a fully trained paramedic works. This ambulance will allow our students to really understand the reality of patient care in the community, and to learn and improve their techniques for moving patients and maintaining treatment in a small, cramped area. For ambulance transport, our students must learn how to prepare their patients appropriately, how to access and treat their patients from one side only, how to move equipment about inside an ambulance safely and perform resuscitation whilst in a moving vehicle.”

The ambulance will not be used for high-speed driver training but occasionally it will travel around the Staffordshire University campus at slow, safe speeds while students learn on board. Believed to be the first fully operational learning ambulance at a UK university, it will also allow student paramedics to fully participate in disaster and accident scenario days with other emergency services which are already fully integrated within paramedic training at Staffordshire University.

Mark continued: “Our students are often young people straight from school and also people who have worked in related roles such as ambulance technicians. Our new ambulance, together with our existing practice facilities at a fully functional ‘ordinary’ house on campus will give these students fresh opportunities for realistic simulation training, and make them even better paramedics.”

Aimee Trimbee, Organisational Development Officer (Practice Placements) for West Midlands Ambulance Service said: “The new vehicle will provide students with the opportunity to gain first-hand experience of working within this environment and provide a chance for them to familiarise themselves with their surroundings before they take on their student placements out on the road. We work extremely closely with Universities and students to ensure they get the best training possible; helping them on their way to a career within the service.”

Ends

Notes for Editors

The Foundation Degree in Paramedic Science is a two-year course accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council. It is designed for people interested in pre-hospital emergency care; who want a career as a paramedic or want to progress onto a Paramedic Science degree.

 

 

Tueday 27th May 2014 – 9.30pm – Steve Parry.

A woman out walking her dogs has been taken to hospital after being trampled by a cow in Staffordshire this evening.

The incident occurred in a field near Coley Grove, Little Haywood at just after 8.20pm.

An ambulance, together with a paramedic in a rapid response vehicle and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Tatenhill attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Ambulance crews arrived to find a woman had been trampled by a cow.

“The woman, believed to be in her forties, was treated for a minor head laceration and a leg injury.

“The patient was immobilised before being airlifted to the University Hospital of North Staffordshire for further assessment and treatment.”

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Tuesday 27th May 2014 – 8.00pm – Murray MacGregor.

A man who fell the best part of 40 feet down a near vertical slope has been lowered to safety through the combined efforts of ambulance and fire crews.

The incident took place in Saltwells Nature Reserve in Brierley Hill at around 5.15pm on Tuesday evening.

Initially a paramedic response vehicle, an ambulance and paramedic officer were sent to the scene, but they quickly requested assistance from the Hazardous Area Response Team and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford with the MERIT trauma doctor on board.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “The patient, who was in his late teens or early 20s, had been with some friends at the top of the steep embankment when he slipped.

“Although he apparently managed to keep his feet at the top, he tumbled a large part of the way down hitting a tree stump which left him with a deep ‘gouge’ in his thigh. He also had a sprained wrist.

“Firefighters set up a rope from the top of the slope which allowed the specialist paramedics from the HART Team to lower themselves down to the patient.

“His wound was dressed and was placed in a specialist stretcher before being lowered to the bottom of the slope.

“While this was on-going, other members of the HART Team managed to find a way to get a Polaris 6×6 vehicle down to the bottom of the slope.

“The man was then placed on the vehicle and driven almost half a mile back to the ambulance. He was then taken to Russells Hall Hospital. He is likely to need surgery for the wound.

“This was an excellent example of fire and ambulance staff working together to rescue a patient from a challenging location.”

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Tuesday 27th May 2014 – 6.10pm – Murray MacGregor.

A jogger’s pursuit of fitness has resulted in him ending up in hospital with potentially serious injuries after a collision with a motorbike in Warwickshire.

The crash happened in Lutterworth Road in Nuneaton at just after 5.10pm on Tuesday afternoon.

Two ambulances and a paramedic rapid response vehicle were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival, ambulance staff found a 65 year old jogger next to parked cars and a motorcycle nearby.

“The man had sustained a head injury and was concussed. In addition he had a possible internal injury and pain in both elbows. After being assessed and treated at the scene, he was taken on blue lights to the major trauma centre at University Hospital Coventry & Warwickshire.

“The rider of the motor bike, a man in his 20s, was thankfully not too seriously hurt. He was treated for minor injuries before being taken to George Eliot Hospital for further assessment.”

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Tuesday 27th May 2014 – 11am – Steve Parry.

West Midlands Ambulance Service can confirm that a 999 call was received following a road traffic incident in Smithfield Road, Oswestry this morning.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the incident at just before 7am.

Two ambulances and a paramedic officer in a rapid response car attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews were alerted to a single vehicle incident in Smithfield Road.

“Despite the efforts of medics, it became apparent to crews that nothing could be done to save a man who was confirmed dead at the scene.”

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Tuesday 27^th May 2014 – 7.00am – Suzie Fothergill.

A man has been seriously injured following a road traffic collision in Birmingham last night.

West Midlands Ambulance Service received several 999 calls to the incident at the junction of Bromford Lane and St. Margaret’s Road in Ward End shortly after 9.20pm yesterday evening.

Two ambulances, a rapid response vehicle, a paramedic area support officer and Trust’s MERIT rapid response vehicle, carrying a critical care paramedic and a trauma doctor, were dispatched to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Crews were called to reports of a car that had been in collision with some railings and that one of the occupants had been ejected.

“On arrival at the scene ambulance crews found a man lying on the edge of a park approximately 15 metres away from the incident. The man, who was semi-conscious, was given advanced emergency medical treatment at the scene for head injuries and a collapsed lung. Due to the nature of his injuries the man was fully immobilised and given an anaesthetic by the doctor before being conveyed to the major trauma centre at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham.

“The hospital was pre-alerted and medics were on standby awaiting the patient’s arrival.

“The driver of the car, a man, was out of the vehicle on the crew’s arrival. He was treated at the scene for minor injuries and taken to Heartlands Hospital for further assessment and treatment.”

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Monday 26^th May 2014 – 8.30pm – Suzie Fothergill.

A boy received emergency medical treatment and was airlifted to hospital after falling from a tree in Worcestershire today.

West Midlands Ambulance Service dispatched a rapid response vehicle, an ambulance and the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance to Abbey Park in Evesham shortly before 1.30pm this afternoon. The first ambulance resource arrived on scene within three minutes of the 999 call.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Ambulance crews were called to reports of a boy who had fallen approximately 25 feet from a tree. On arrival at the scene, ambulance staff treated the boy believed to be eight years of age for a fractured leg. Due to the nature of the incident the boy was also treated for potential pelvic and abdominal injuries.

“The casualty was given pain relief at the scene and fully immobilised before being airlifted to Birmingham Children’s Hospital for further assessment and treatment.”

Ends

Monday 26^th May 2014 – 8.00pm – Suzie Fothergill.

 

A man has been airlifted to hospital following an incident in Staffordshire today.

 

An ambulance, a paramedic area support officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Staffordshire were dispatched to the incident which happened in Milwich at approximately 2.15pm.

 

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “On arrival, ambulance staff treated a man in his 30s for burns to his arms and face after attempts to light a bonfire resulted in a flash back.

 

“The man who had sustained approximately 22% burns was given pain relief and his burns were dressed at the scene before he was airlifted the specialist burns unit at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham for further assessment and treatment.”

 

Ends

Monday 26^th May 2014 – 9.15am – Claire Brown.

An off duty paramedic was one of several ambulance staff that came to the aid of a seriously injured man in the early hours of this morning in Coventry.

The incident happened on Hen Lane, Coventry at 5.30am (Monday). An off duty paramedic, on his way to work, came across the collision between a car and a pedestrian and stopped to render aid. An ambulance and a paramedic area support officer were also sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “The pedestrian, a 64 year old man, had been in collision with a car causing the windscreen to smash on impact.

“The man sustained significant multiple fractures to his leg and a suspected fractured pelvis in the collision. Ambulance staff administered pain relief to help stabilise his condition before working carefully to immobilise him with a neck collar, spinal board, pelvic splint and leg splints.

“Once fully immobilised, the man was taken by land ambulance on blue lights to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire, a regional trauma centre, for further emergency treatment.”

 

ENDS

Sunday 25^th May 2014 – 6.50pm – Claire Brown.

Ambulance staff and fire crews worked as a team to rescue a man who ended up trapped by his legs in wreckage for 40 minutes after a car collided with a lamppost in Warwickshire.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the Mancetter roundabout on the A5 in Atherstone shortly before 4.30pm (Sunday). An ambulance, a responder paramedic, a paramedic area support officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford with a MERIT trauma doctor on board attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Crews arrived to find a car which had left the road and collided with a lamppost.

“The driver and soul occupant of the car, a man believed to be 19-years-old, was trapped in the wreckage by his legs.

“Ambulance staff and the medic worked to assess and treat the man who had suffered multiple fractures to his leg and administered pain relief to him before the fire service carefully extricated him from the car. After around 40 minutes, the man was released from the car and immobilised onto a spinal board, his leg was splinted and his condition stabilised. The man was then taken by air ambulance to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, a specialist trauma centre, for further emergency treatment.”

 

ENDS

Sunday 25^th May 2014 – 5.30pm – Claire Brown.

A man has been airlifted to hospital after falling from a step ladder whilst rescuing a cat on a caravan site in Shropshire.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to a caravan site in Wentnor, Bishops Castle, shortly after midday today (Sunday). A local community first responder, an ambulance and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “The man, believed to be in his 60s, had reportedly fallen from a step ladder whilst rescuing a cat from the roof of a caravan.

“Upon assessment by ambulance staff, the man was found to have suffered a head injury and fractures to his arm and ankle. The man was administered pain relief before he was carefully immobilised with a neck collar, spinal board, arm splint and leg splint. The air ambulance conveyed the man to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham for further treatment.”

 

ENDS

Sunday 25^th May 2014 – 4.50pm – Claire Brown.

Ambulance staff and medics successfully resuscitated a woman at the roadside following a collision between a motorcycle and a car in Coventry this morning.

The incident happened on Tamworth Road in Keresley End, Coventry, at 11.40am (Sunday). Two ambulances, a paramedic area support officer and the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance with two doctors on board attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “The pillion and rider had both been thrown from the motorcycle in the collision. Passing police officers were administering treatment when ambulance staff arrived.

“The woman pillion, in her 50s, suffered multiple injuries and was in cardiac arrest. Ambulance crews and the two doctors worked as a team to perform CPR on the woman and administered pre-hospital emergency interventions on scene to further aid their efforts. After several minutes of resuscitation, crews managed to successfully restart her heart. She was immobilised with a neck collar and spinal board before being taken by land ambulance on blue lights to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire, a regional trauma centre, for further emergency treatment. The two doctors travelled in the ambulance to continue treatment en route. The woman was said to be in a critical condition upon arrival at hospital.

“The rider, a man in his 50s, was conscious and breathing but had sustained a nasty fracture to his arm as well as pelvic injuries. The man was given pain relief before he was immobilised with a neck collar, spinal board, pelvic splint and arm splint. An ambulance crew conveyed the man to the same hospital on blue lights and sirens.”

 

ENDS

Sunday 25^th May 2014 – 10.20am – Claire Brown.

A man has died and two other people have been injured following a road traffic collision in Worcester in the early hours.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Bilford Road, Worcester shortly before 2.30am this morning (Sunday). Three ambulances, two responder paramedics and a MERIT trauma doctor attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Crews arrived to find a car which had left the road and collided with a lamppost.

“One passenger, a man, was in cardiac arrest. He was pulled from the wreckage before ambulance staff and the doctor commenced CPR at the roadside. Sadly, despite their best efforts, nothing could be done to save the man and he was confirmed dead on scene.

“Two other passengers were treated by ambulance staff at the scene. One suffered no apparent injuries whilst the other sustained suspected wrist and ankle fractures. Due to the nature of the incident, both were fully immobilised before being taken by land ambulance to Worcestershire Royal Hospital for further assessment and treatment.

“The driver of the car, a man, was assessed by ambulance staff but did not require hospital treatment.”

 

ENDS

 

 

Saturday 24^th May 2014 – 9.15pm – Claire Brown.

A man has died after being in collision with a lorry on the M40 in Warwickshire this afternoon.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to reports of a collision involving a lorry and a pedestrian on the southbound carriageway of the M40 between junctions 13 and 12 in Gaydon at 3.15pm (Saturday). Two ambulances and a paramedic area support officer attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Sadly, nothing could be done to save the pedestrian, a man, and he was confirmed dead at the scene.

“The lorry driver, a man, and a woman who witnessed the incident were treated at the scene by paramedics but did not require hospital treatment.”

 

ENDS

Saturday 24^th May 2014 – 4.00pm – Claire Brown.

Ten women who were taking part in an organised raft race ended up being rescued from an island in the middle of the River Wye in Hereford earlier this afternoon.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the River Wye near Bye Cross in Moccas shortly after 1.00pm this afternoon (Saturday). Two ambulances, a paramedic area support officer and a Mercia Accident Rescue Service (MARS) BASICS doctor attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “The ten young women were taking part in a regatta when their raft collided with an island in the middle of the river and capsized. The ten women, who were wearing life jackets and fully equipped with safety gear, managed to swim to the small island to await rescue.

“Hereford and Worcester as well as Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Services used boats to rescue the marooned women from the island, two at a time, to a campsite further upstream.

“Ambulance crews and the doctor had set up a casualty clearing station in a barn on the campsite where they were able to assess the ten women.

“Although they were a bit cold and wet from their ordeal, the women were uninjured and weren’t hypothermic. Once they’d had chance to warm up, the women were discharged from care by the doctor.

“The incident was an excellent example of good team work between emergency services.”

 

ENDS

Friday 23^rd May 2014 – 3.30pm – Claire Brown.

West Midlands Ambulance Service will be flying the flag at Birmingham Pride this weekend to celebrate diversity.

Members of the Trust’s lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans (LGBT) working group will be marching in the parade for the very first time, to support the region’s LGBT communities.

John Renshaw, a Birmingham-based Paramedic Clinical Team Mentor and member of the working group, said: “As part of the Trust’s community engagement, we felt passionately that Birmingham Pride, one of the biggest gay pride events in Britain, was something we needed to get involved in.

“A total of 10 staff from the working group, from all across the Region and from different roles, will be donning pink WMAS t-shirts and flying a rainbow flag to take part in the Pride march alongside fellow emergency service colleagues. This will be the first time West Midlands Ambulance Service has been represented at Pride and we’re very excited.

“We’re also sharing a stand with West Midlands Police during the weekend to hand out freebies, provide useful advice about using 999 and hopefully encourage people to get more involved with their ambulance service by signing up as official members.

“If you’re coming to Pride this weekend, don’t forget to come and say hello to show your support!”

For photographs of the parade and to follow the team’s progress at Pride this weekend, follow @OFFICIALWMAS on Twitter or search for #WMASpride.

 

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Notes to Editors:

Pictured below (left to right): Adam Aston (Birmingham Paramedic), Adam Layland (Senior Contract Manager for Non-Emergency Services), Maria Watson (Human Resources Manager) and John Renshaw (Birmingham Paramedic).

Friday 23^rd May 2014 – 11.00am – Claire Brown.

A recently retired Shropshire paramedic made a surprise debut on the pitch at West Bromwich Albion Football Club’s last match of the season earlier this month.

Bob Kelsey, 64 from Stottesdon in Shropshire, retired from the Trust in May this year after more than 40 years’ service in the Black Country and Shropshire. Bob joined in 1972 as an ambulance man in West Bromwich before working his way up the career ladder, working in various roles, before becoming a Station Manager in Donnington.

For much of his career, Bob has been on the side-lines for hundreds of fixtures at West Bromwich Albion as the Trust’s Match Day Commander providing medical cover to fans and players alike.

On Sunday 11^th May, the clubs official medical team surprised Bob with a signed shirt, complete with his name on the back, presented on the pitch by goalkeeper Ben Foster.

Bob said: “It was a real honour to be given such a send-off by my colleagues at West Bromwich Albion who I’ve worked with for many years. I’ll miss the banter of covering the Baggies, though I’ve still got a season ticket so I’m still going to be there, just not in a work capacity!

“On the whole I’ve enjoyed my career, it’s been a good job and I’d definitely do it again if I could. It’s was tough keeping up with the youngsters in the end. I’ve worked everywhere, all around the West Midlands but mostly in the Black Country and more recently, in Shropshire.

“I’m not going to let the grass grow under my feet in retirement. My wife, Chris, and I intend to do lots of travelling. I’ll also be continuing my part time job at Severn Valley Railway where I help with trackside maintenance.”

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Notes to Editors:

Photographs courtesy of Adam Fradgley/AMA

Thursday 22^nd May 2014 – 5.25pm – John Hawker.

 A man has died following an RTC in Beckford this lunchtime.

The crash occurred on the A46, near to the Beckford Inn, Tewkesbury at around 12.45pm.

An ambulance, a paramedic officer and two air ambulances attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews arrived to find a motorcycle and a van that had been in a serious collision.

“The man riding the motorcycle was in traumatic cardiac arrest and advanced life support was carried out by medics.  Unfortunately, despite the best efforts of everyone in attendance nothing could be done to save the man and he was confirmed dead at the scene.

“The driver of the van, a man in his late 50’s, was not injured in the crash, but later on suffered chest pain at the scene and also the effects of shock.

“The man received treatment and was airlifted to Worcester Royal Hospital for further treatment.”

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We have no further details on this incident.

Please see this press release from Shropshire Council:

http://shropshire.gov.uk/news/2014/05/young-at-heart-take-the-test-and-find-out/

 

Wednesday 21^st May 2014 – 9.30pm – Claire Brown.

A man who was crushed by a car in Stourport on Severn earlier this evening received advanced pre-hospital treatment by ambulance staff before being taken to hospital in a critical condition.

The incident happened on Manor Road in Stourport on Severn shortly after 7.00pm (Wednesday). An ambulance, a community paramedic, a paramedic officer and the MERIT trauma doctor attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “When ambulance staff arrived they found bystanders administering excellent CPR on a man in cardiac arrest. The man suffered serious crush injuries after the car he was working underneath fell on top of him.

“Ambulance staff took over resuscitation efforts and administered advanced medical interventions to help restart his heart. The man was taken by land ambulance on blue lights to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, a regional trauma centre. The doctor continued vital emergency treatment en route to hospital.”

 

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Friday 21^st May 2014 – 5.05pm – Chris Kowalik.

A diesel spill following a collision on a busy Coventry road brought traffic to a standstill earlier today.

Two cars collided in London Road in the Willenhall area of the city. West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the scene shortly before 2.05pm

An advanced community paramedic in a rapid response vehicle, a paramedic area support officer in a rapid response vehicle and an ambulance crew attended.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “A man who was one of the drivers was disorientated and was taken to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire. The other driver, also male, had a minor injury and was discharged at the scene.”

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Wednesday 21st May 2014 – 2.20pm – Claire Brown.

One woman has died and five other people have been injured in a three car road traffic collision in Cradley Heath this morning.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Waterfall Lane, Cradley Heath at 11.50am earlier today (Tuesday). Four ambulances, a responder paramedic, an area support officer, a senior paramedic officer, the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford with a MERIT trauma doctor on board together with a second Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Crews arrived to find three cars which had been involved in a significant collision.

“The passenger of one car, an elderly woman, was in cardiac arrest. Ambulance staff carried out CPR on the woman but sadly, despite best efforts, nothing could be done to save her and she was confirmed dead on scene.

“The driver from the same car, an elderly man, was assessed by the doctor who suspected he had suffered abdominal and pelvic injuries in the collision. Whilst ambulance staff and the doctor worked to stabilise the man and administer oxygen and emergency drugs, the fire service carefully extricated him from the car. The man was immobilised with a neck collar and spinal board before being taken by land ambulance on blue lights to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, the regions specialist trauma centre. The doctor travelled in the ambulance to continue further treatment en route.

“The driver of the second car, a man in his 30s, had managed to get himself out of the car but collapsed soon after. Ambulance staff treated the man for chest and leg pain before he was immobilised and taken to Sandwell Hospital for further treatment.

“Three occupants from the third car, two women and a young girl, were described as ‘walking wounded’ by ambulance staff. The girl, thought to be under five, suffered a bump to her head and one of the women was treated for a medical condition. All three were taken to Russells Hall Hospital as a precaution.

“Police have closed the road between Higgs Field Way and Owens Way and is expected to remain closed until this evening.”

 

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Tuesday 20^th May 2014 – 7.40pm – Claire Brown.

Two men received life-saving treatment from the ambulance service after they were in collision with a car in West Bromwich at rush hour.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to reports of a collision between a car and two pedestrians at the junction of High Street and Trinity Road at 5.30pm this afternoon (Tuesday).

Three ambulances, a paramedic area support officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford with a MERIT trauma doctor on board attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Upon arrival crews found two pedestrians, both men, who had reportedly been in collision with a car at a pedestrian crossing. One man was in cardiac arrest and was being given excellent CPR by an off duty trainee paramedic and members of the public.

“Crews immediately took over resuscitation efforts and successfully managed to restart the man’s heart. The man had sustained a serious head injury and, in order to stabilise the man’s serious condition, the MERIT doctor took the decision to anaesthetise him on scene.

“Once stable the man was fully immobilised and taken by land ambulance under police escort to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham. The doctor travelled in the ambulance to continue emergency treatment en route.

“The second pedestrian, a man believed to be in his 30s, was conscious and breathing but had sustained nasty fractures to both his arm and leg.

“Ambulance staff worked to control the man’s pain by administering strong pain relief before they dressed his wounds and fully immobilised him with a neck collar, spinal board, arm and leg splints and a pelvic binder. The man was taken by land ambulance to the same hospital under blue light conditions.

“The driver of the car did not require hospital treatment.”

 

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Tuesday 20th May 2014 – 3.00pm – Suzie Fothergill.

Two teenagers from St. Margaret Ward Catholic Academy in Tunstall have been praised by West Midlands Ambulance Service after stopping to help at an incident in Kidsgrove.

Jordan Burton and Daniel French of Trinity Sixth Form have been presented with Chief Officer Commendation Awards following the incident. The boys were en route to lessons at University Academy Kidsgrove when they witness an elderly lady take a nasty fall.

It was heavily raining on the day of the incident and without any encouragement the two boys removed their coats and covered the patient with their jackets to ensure she kept warm and as dry as possible. They stayed with the woman and her husband until the ambulance crew arrived.

When the ambulance crew arrived, the two boys stayed on scene and helped to assist the crew whilst they stabilised the patient.

Talking about the incident, Paramedic, George Shakeshaft said: “I would like to take the opportunity to thank both of the boys for all their help. My crew mate, Andrew, and I were extremely grateful to the boys, not only for their assistance to us on that day, but for the help and compassion shown to the lady and her husband in such difficult circumstances.”

The boys were been presented with their surprise awards during their school assembly on Monday 19th May.

Head of Sixth Form at St Margaret Wards, Mrs Rhodes said: “The way in which Jordan and Dan acted on this occasion comes as no surprise to the staff who have known them throughout their time at St Margaret Ward and the Trinity Sixth Form. Their compassion and responsibility embodies the ethos of the school and we are delighted that their actions have been recognised.”

Paramedic Area Support Officer, John Bourne, presented the boys with their certificates. John said: “It was a pleasure to award both of these boys with their Chief Officers Commendations, they did an excellent job. During the presentation one of the pupils expressed an interest in taking on a career as a paramedic; hopefully his experience from this incident, teamed up with this award will spur him on to pursue his career. We’d like to wish both Jordan and Daniel all the very best and, once again, thank them for their actions.”

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Pictured (right to left): Daniel French, John Bourne (WMAS Area Support Officer), Jordan Burton and Chris Smith (Head Teacher).

Tuesday 20th May 2014 – 10.40am – Chris Kowalik.

A collision involving a car and a lorry resulted in tailbacks on the M6 in Staffordshire this morning.

A senior paramedic officer with West Midlands Ambulance Service came across the incident on the northbound carriageway between junctions 13 and 14 shortly after 8.30 this morning. Two ambulance crews were assigned to attend. Another paramedic officer who was travelling along the motorway also stopped to help.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “The northbound carriageway was partially blocked by the collision with long resultant tailbacks.

“There were two men in the car both with minor injuries; the driver was also complaining of arm pain while his passenger had a slight head wound.

“Both were immobilised on spinal boards as a precaution and were taken to Stafford Hospital.”

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Tuesday 20th May 2014 – 9.55am – Chris Kowalik.

A busy road junction in Warwickshire was partially blocked this morning following a collision involving a number of cars.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Longbridge Island just off the M40 at junction 15 shortly before 7.40am today.

A BASICS emergency doctor in a rapid response vehicle, a paramedic area support officer in a rapid response vehicle and two ambulance crews attended.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews arrived to find several damaged vehicles and a man in his thirties who had suffered a medical episode. He was taken on alert to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire.

“A woman from one of the other vehicles involved was complaining of back pain. She was immobilised with the use of a spinal board and neck collar and was taken to the same hospital for further checks and any necessary subsequent treatment.”

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Tuesday 20th May 2014 – 6.45am – Murray MacGregor.

A man who launched himself at a friend in an inflatable ‘sumo suit’ ended up flying rather further than he expected – at 160mph in an air ambulance.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to an event at Kemerton Park in Kemerton near Tewksbury at just after 6.00pm on Monday evening.

The 40 year from Southampton had been with work colleagues enjoying the event which included blow up sumo suits.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “A rapid response vehicle and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham were sent to the scene.

“On arrival, ambulance staff were told that the man had ‘launched’ himself at a colleague, but when he bounced off he fell backwards and landed on his back and head.

“The man was knocked unconscious for a short period before coming round but he was not fully alert. He was complaining of pain in his nose, left shoulder and left leg.

“After he had been immobilised using a neck collar and back board, he was airlifted to Gloucester Royal Hospital for further assessment and treatment.”

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Monday 19th May 2014 – 8.27pm – Murray MacGregor.

Two young children have been taken to the paediatric trauma centre after they were in a car involved in a crash in Birmingham.

The crash happened at the junction of Sutton Road and Chester Road in Erdington at about 6.35pm.

A paramedic officer and another member of staff en route to the Erdington hub came across the incident and started treatment prior to the three ambulances, and a BAISCS Doctor who had been dispatched.

Given the initial reports from the scene, the paramedic officer and aircrew from Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford with the MERIT Trauma Doctor, who had been dealing with another incident in Short Heath Road, about 4 miles away, were also responded to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “When crews arrived, they found two cars, one with front end damage and the second with significant intrusion to the nearside.

“There was a family of four in the second car. Mum and Dad in the front were uninjured. A 5 year old boy had suffered a nasty laceration to his head. After treatment from the doctor on scene, he was taken on blue lights to the paediatric major trauma centre at Birmingham Children’s Hospital.

“His 3 year old sister was initially uninjured but developed abdominal pains and was taken to the same hospital.

“The woman in her 20s, who was driving the other car, was treated for neck pain and was taken to Heartlands Hospital as a precaution.”

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Monday 19th May 2014 – 8.05pm – Murray MacGregor.

A motorcyclist has escaped serious injury despite reports that he ‘flew through the air’ and was unconscious after a collision with a car in the Erdington area of Birmingham.

The crash happened at just before 6.00pm on Short Heath Road at junction of Turfpitts Lane and resulted in no fewer than five 999 calls.

An ambulance, a rapid response vehicle, a paramedic officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford with the MERIT Trauma Doctor on board were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival, crews found a motorcyclist on the pavement. His motorbike had suffered significant damage.

“The rider, who was approximately 30 years old, had started to come round. After an examination, his only apparent injury was to his face.

“As a precaution he was taken to Heartlands Hospital by land ambulance for further assessment.

“The young man driving the car was shaken but otherwise unghurt.”

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Monday 19^th May 2014 – 6.40pm – Murray MacGregor.

One of the busiest dual carriageways in the region was shut to allow an air ambulance to land so that a man injured in a road traffic collision could be airlifted to a major trauma centre.

The incident happened on the northbound A46 Warwick bypass between Leamington Road and Stoneleigh Road 4.40pm

Two ambulances, a paramedic officer and the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance were sent to the scene. A community first responder who was driving by also stopped to offer assistance.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival, crews found two vans that had been in collision. A blue ‘Luton’ van had rear end damage and was leaning over at an angle. A smaller white van had significant front end damage.

“The driver of the blue van was lying near the wreckage. The 43 year old had suffered potentially serious head injuries. Initial calls suggested that he had been unconscious for a period of time but had come round.

“In addition, he had facial, neck and back injuries. His condition was stabilised at the scene and was immobilised before being airlifted to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire where medics were on standby for his arrival.

“The driver of the white van, a 46-year-old man, was treated for a minor arm injury before being taken to the same hospital.

“The necessity to close the road to allow the air ambulance in to land, did cause significant disruption to roads in the area.”

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Hosted by Shropshire Council’s public health team and Alzheimer’s Society, the free event will be held at Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery on Friday 23 May 2014 between 10am and 3.30pm.

For more information, please see this press release from Shropshire Council:

http://shropshire.gov.uk/news/2014/05/support-and-advice-at-hand-at-dementia-awareness-day-event-in-shrewsbury/

Monday 19^th May 2014 – 2.25pm – Murray MacGregor.

Whilst many people were out enjoying the sun over the weekend, staff from West Midlands Ambulance Service were dealing with an almost 10% increase in call numbers.

On Saturday, call numbers were up by almost 8% compared to recent weeks; on Sunday it was even busier with calls up over 10%.

Despite the number of calls increasing as the weather got better last week, the Trust was able to exceed all of its performance targets and provide good clinical care to patients.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “The warm weather undoubtedly brought lots of people out to enjoy the wonderful West Midlands. Unfortunately, that did also result in a number of additional calls for the ambulance service.

“When the weather gets warm, we get a rise in the number of people, usually with long term conditions, who suffer breathing difficulties. Equally, the most common reason for a 999 call over the weekend was as a result of the patient having fallen.

“However, there were a number of weather related calls too such as for sunburn, dehydration from being outside for too long without drinking enough non-alcoholic liquids and falls whilst enjoying a range of pursuits in the countryside.

“Once again the planning and hard work of crews ensured the public of the West Midlands got a very high level of service.”

You can see the Demand by 999 calls received by each of our five operational areas.

Monday 19^th May 2014 – 8am – Jamie Arrowsmith.

A man has died following a road traffic collision in Burton last night (Sunday).

The crash occurred on Grafton Road in Stapenhill shortly before 8.15pm. An ambulance, a paramedic support officer, a community paramedic in a rapid response vehicle and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Staffordshire attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews arrived to find a man who had collided with a lamppost whilst riding a moped.

“He had suffered significant head and chest injuries in the incident and although advanced life support was carried out by medics, unfortunately nothing could be done to save him and he was confirmed dead at the scene.”

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We have no more details on this matter.

Sunday 18^th May 2014 – 8.45pm – Jamie Arrowsmith.

A man has died following a road traffic collision in Ashbourne this afternoon.

The crash occurred on Six Lane End, Draycote-in-the-Clay, at 4.30pm. An ambulance, a paramedic support officer, a community paramedic in a rapid response vehicle and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Staffordshire attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews arrived to find a car that had come to rest on its roof in a field after leaving the road and travelling through a hedge.

“Unfortunately, it quickly became apparent nothing could be done to save the man, the driver of the car, and he was confirmed dead at the scene.

“There were no other vehicles involved in the incident.”

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We have no further details on this incident.

Sunday 18th May 2014 – 2.20pm – Jamie Arrowsmith.

The driver of a car that came to rest on its side after colliding with a lamppost in Birmingham this morning had to be taken to one of the region’s major trauma centres.

West Midlands Ambulance service was called to the incident in Pegleg Walk, Walkers Heath shortly after 9.25am and sent an ambulance, a paramedic area support officer and a community paramedic in a rapid response vehicle to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival, crews discovered a car that had come to rest on the passenger side and one patient who had managed to free herself from the vehicle.

“The woman, who is believed to be in her 40s and was the only person in the car, was assessed by crews and immobilised as a precaution.

“Once her condition was stabilised she was treated for chest, rib and arm injuries before being transferred on alert to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham.

“There were no other vehicles involved in the incident.”

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Saturday 17th May 2014 – 9.15pm – Jamie Arrowsmith.

Two people had to be cut free from their cars and then required hospital treatment following a three vehicle road traffic collision in Solihull this morning.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the incident in Haslucks Green Road, Shirley, shortly before 11.45am and sent two ambulances, a community paramedic in a rapid response vehicle and a paramedic area support officer to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival crews discovered one car with front end damage, one with front and rear end damage and one with rear end damage.

“The car with front and rear end damage contained two patients, a man and a woman who are believed to be in their 30s, both of whom had to be cut free from their vehicles.

“Crews assessed the duo and once they had been immobilised and had their condition stabilised, the man was treated for neck and upper back injuries whilst the woman was treated for lower back and leg injuries.

“Working closely with members of the fire service, who had to cut the roof off the car, crews carefully helped the duo out of the vehicle before they were both transported to Heartlands Hospital.

“Thankfully, nobody in the other two vehicles suffered any significant injuries in the incident.”

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Friday 16^th May 2014 – 4.05pm – Chris Kowalik.

The grounds of Chateau Impney was the landing site for the Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham that was called to a road traffic collision in Droitwich today.

A car had collided with a tree; an incident also attended by a paramedic in a rapid response vehicle, a paramedic area support officer in a rapid response vehicle and two ambulance crews.

West Midlands Ambulance Service received the call to go to Corbett Avenue in Droitwich at 12.45pm.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “The chateau grounds was the nearest location for the landing of the air ambulance and an attending fire officer then took the aircrew by road to the scene of the collision.

“A woman in her eighties who was driving the car had back pain. The fire service cut the roof off the car. She was immobilised by ambulance personnel, then taken by one of the two attending land ambulances to the air ambulance which flew her to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham.

“Her husband who was a passenger in the car had no visible injuries, but was taken to Worcestershire Royal Hospital as a precaution.”

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