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Friday 28^th September 2018 – 10.00am – Murray MacGregor.

One motorcyclist has died and another has suffered serious injuries after a crash involving two motorcycles and a car.

It happened outside Summerhill School, in Lodge Lane, Kingswinford at about 7.10pm last night (Thursday).

Three ambulances, a senior paramedic officer and the MERIT Trauma Doctor and critical care paramedic were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service said: “On arrival, ambulance staff found two motorcyclists who had been involved in a crash with a car.

“The first motorcyclist had suffered serious injuries.  He was taken on blue lights to the major trauma centre at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham with the doctor travelling with the crew.  Sadly, he died later at hospital.

“The other rider, a man in his 30s had suffered multiple injuries.  He was treated at the scene before also being taken on blue lights to the major trauma centre at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham.

“A woman in her 40s from the car was treated for less serious injuries and was taken to Russells Hall Hospital.  A man and a woman from the same car were uninjured.”

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Friday 28^th September 2018 – 9.45am – Murray MacGregor.

Two men have died after an incident on a dual carriageway.

It happened at about 8.10pm on Thursday evening on the southbound A40 to the south of Whitchurch in Herefordshire, near the petrol station.

Two ambulances and a paramedic officer were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival, crews found a motorcyclist who had suffered very serious injuries.  Unfortunately, there was nothing that could be done and he was confirmed dead at the scene.

“A short distance away a second man was found, and again, sadly, northing could be done to help him and he was also confirmed dead at the scene.”

Ends

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Thursday 27^th September 2018 – 12.00pm – Murray MacGregor.

A new report shows West Midlands Ambulance Service is the most efficient in the country.

This remarkable success was achieved by being the only ambulance service in the country with a paramedic on every vehicle; having the most modern fleet with all vehicles standardised and none over five years old; and by using some of the most technologically advanced equipment.  Together this means the Trust is able to discharge more patients at the scene than any other service, which brings real benefits to patients and hospitals as fewer patients are taken to A&E.

The report by Lord Carter of Coles examines the differences between ambulance services in England.  West Midlands Ambulance Service Chief Executive, Anthony Marsh, said: “We welcome the report as it recognises the extraordinary lengths that ambulance service staff go to, to help patients but also backs up many of the decisions this Trust has taken over several years.

“Despite being one of the worst funded ambulance services in the country, our unique operating model means we are the only Trust in the country to consistently surpass all of the response targets.

“We have invested heavily in our staff with update training every year.  This helps us to achieve the second lowest conveyance rate in the country: only about half of patients are taken to hospital but we are confident that we can reduce that still further.

“We have invested heavily in technology which is recognised nationally and internationally as a Global Digital Exemplar.  We have one of the most technologically advanced control centres and over the last few years have rolled out our electronic patient record (EPR) to every vehicle.

“The system automatically takes information from our diagnostic devices such as blood pressure cuff and ECGs and updates the electronic record.  Via our clinical support desk, paramedics can also access previous records which can help in diagnosis.  The information being recorded can also be seen in real time by the hospital staff as a patient is being conveyed so that the A&E Department can be better prepared for when the ambulance arrives.  In addition, a copy of the record is sent electronically to the patient’s GP for their local records.

“We have worked very hard over recent years to improve the support we provide to staff.  As well as regular update training, all operational staff get mentored on the job, and we have also provided 24-hour management support on every ambulance station.

“We also support them pastorally: we now have two physiotherapists helping staff who do get injured back to work. We have expanded our peer support networks for staff should they need any help after serious incidents.  Together these allow us to have the lowest sickness rate in the country.

“Lord Carter recognises the huge cost and frustration experienced by ambulance services dealing with the unacceptable hospital handover delays.  It put a huge extra pressure on my staff, provides poor care for patients and means some patients wait far longer than they should have to, before they receive hospital care.

“We were delighted to have a visit from Lord Carter earlier this year to see the progress we have made over the last five years.  It was clear how impressed he was with what we do here in the West Midlands.

“Lord Carter does highlight that there is further work still to be done, which we fully support.  There is no doubt that further improvements in technology would benefit our staff and patients alike.  We also recognise and welcome his comments about a lack of clinically suitable alternatives to A&E inhibits our ability to keep patients out of hospital.  We will study the report closely so that we can make further improvements for the benefit of patients.”

Picture shows (L-R) Student Paramedic Mohammed Azim, Lord Carter of Coles, WMAS Chief Executive Anthony Marsh, Clinical team mentor Leigh Watts.

Wednesday 26^th September 2018 – 9.40am – Murray MacGregor.

West Midlands Ambulance Service is appealing for the public’s help in apprehending the individual(s) who attacked not one, but two ambulances with bricks.

The two incidents took place as the ambulance went through the underpass on Birchfield Road at the junction of Aston Lane in Birmingham at about 2.30pm on Tuesday afternoon; the second incident took place at the same location at around 3.00pm.

In the first case, the vehicle was travelling on blue lights to a patient with breathing difficulties.  The ambulance crew had to stop as the windscreen was damaged and meant that a second ambulance had to be sent to the 999 call, resulting in a delay of around 10 minutes in getting help to the patient.

In a bizarre twist, it was that second ambulance that was also targeted as it took the same patient to hospital.  On this occasion, the crew heard a loud bang as they drove along, but it was only once they arrived at hospital that they discovered a dent in the ‘A Post’ just above the windscreen and driver’s door.

Both vehicles are now off the road and it will cost hundreds of pounds to repair.

Emergency Services Operations Delivery Director, Nathan Hudson, said: “It is hard to put into words how angry and disappointing these incidents are.

“Throwing a brick at any vehicle is dangerous and idiotic, but when it is an ambulance responding to an emergency, it’s beggar’s belief.

“Never mind that two vehicles are off the road which could be out helping to save lives, this was a horrendous incident for the staff involved.  They do a difficult job at the best of times, but to have this sort of incident happen has understandably left them shocked and upset.  I am just thankful that no-one was hurt.

“The potential for this to have turned into an incident which resulted in serious injury or worse is plain to see.  I am therefore asking anyone who was in the area who saw anything or who has CCTV of that area to contact West Midlands Police as soon as possible so that those responsible are brought to justice.”

Anyone with information can contact West Midlands Police via Live Chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk between 8am and midnight, call 101 anytime or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Quote log number 1364 of 25th September.

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Thursday 12^th July 2018 – 9.30am – Murray MacGregor.

Ambulance staff faced a barrage of 999 emergency calls after the final whistle in the England Croatia match as some fans struggled to come to terms with the loss.

Call numbers rose by 15% compared to the same time the previous week with over 1100 calls received between 9.30pm and 4.30am.

Assistant Chief Ambulance Officer, Nathan Hudson, who was in control of the Trust, said: “Almost immediately after the final whistle, the phone lines lit up.

“We were called to over 40 reports of assaults in the aftermath of the match.  We also dealt with a number of serious RTCs and other drink related incidents with people falling over, drink fuelled cases of bravado leading to injuries.  Sadly, we also saw a number of cases of domestic violence.

Significant Cases

An ambulance and a paramedic officer were sent to reports of a large fight in Beacon Road, Great Barr, Birmingham at 9.40pm.  In total, 8 calls were received about the disturbance.  A man in his 40s was taken to hospital was facial injuries and numerous abrasions.  A second man who was being assessed walked off after becoming aggressive towards the crew.

The Trust was called to reports of a man who had been ‘surfing’ on top of a moving car in Barn lane, Olton, Solihull at 9.50pm.  An ambulance and a paramedic officer were sent to the scene.  A man in his 40s was treated for head and arm injuries.  He was treated at the scene before being taken to hospital.

The Trust was called to the canal opposite Walkabout in Broad Street in Birmingham at 10.30pm to reports of 16 people having jumped into the water.  A paramedic officer and an ambulance were sent to the scene.  After assessing those there, they were all discharged on scene.

Nathan Hudson, added: “The high levels of demand continued through until around 4.30am before returning to levels that we would normally have expected to see.

“The Trust had put in place an extensive plan to deal with the evening with a large number of additional crews, managers and doctors on shift.  The planning paid dividends with the Trust able to cope with the significant rise in demand exceptionally well.  I would like to thank all of the staff who came in on days off to assist us.”

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Thursday 12^th July 2018 – 7:45am – Murray MacGregor.

A motorcyclist has died after a collision with a car.

The tragic incident happened in Adderley Road outside Adderley Park in the Saltley area of Birmingham just before 6.50pm last night (Wednesday).

An ambulance was on scene in just over five minutes and was back up by a second ambulance, a paramedic officer and the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “The exact circumstances of what had happened were not clear, but on arrival, ambulance staff found the motorcyclist in cardiac arrest.

“Crews carried out advanced life support at the scene but sadly, it was not possible to save the man and he was confirmed dead at the scene.

“There were no other patients.”

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Friday 6^th July 2018 – 9.30am – Claire Brown.

Despite the best efforts of ambulance staff yesterday, a motorcyclist sadly died following an RTC in Atherstone.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Nuneaton Road in Mancetter, Atherstone, shortly after 4.30pm yesterday (Thursday).  An ambulance, a paramedic officer and the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance with a doctor on board were responded to the scene. One of the Trust’s Patient Transport Services (PTS) crews were passing the incident and stopped to render aid to assist emergency colleagues.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Crews arrived to find a motorcyclist, a man, who was in critical condition following a collision with a car. Whilst ambulance staff began administering trauma care to the man, his condition worsened, and he went into cardiac arrest. The team of medics quickly worked together to administer advanced life support at the roadside. Unfortunately, nothing could be done to save the man and he was confirmed dead at the scene.”

ENDS

Friday 6^th July 2018 – 8.20am – Claire Brown.

A quad biker suffered serious injuries after ending up 20ft down a steep embankment in Rowley Regis yesterday.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Moor Lane, near to Rowley Regis Hospital at 4.50pm (Thursday). A paramedic officer, an ambulance, HART Paramedics and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham with a doctor on board attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Emergency services arrived to find the quad biker, a man in his 60s, who had ended up 20ft down a steep embankment after coming off the road.

“Upon assessment ambulance staff found he had sustained potentially serious injuries and administered treatment to help stabilise his condition on scene.

“Due to the man’s precarious position on the steep gradient the team of medics decided to fully immobilise the man and placed him into a Multi Integrated Body Splint (MIBS), a material stretcher with lifting handles, to ensure he could be moved easily and safely. Ambulance staff and the fire service then worked as a team to carefully lift the man up the slope using rope rescue techniques where he was then transferred to the awaiting land ambulance and conveyed on blue lights to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham.

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Thursday 5^th July 2018 – 8.45am – Murray MacGregor.

A motorcyclist has suffered serious injuries after a collision with a car.

It happened on Almond Tree Avenue in Coventry at about 8.40pm last night (Wednesday).

An ambulance, a paramedic officer and The Air Ambulance Service Critical Care Car with a doctor on board attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival ambulance crews found the rider partly under the car.

“The man was immobilised, given pain relief and had a splint applied before being taken on blue lights to the major trauma centre at University Hospital Coventry & Warwickshire with the doctor travelling with the crew.

“The two occupants of the car were also assessed but were discharged on scene.”

Ends

70 years of change but one shared belief – the NHS would be hugely missed.

Read More “70 years of change but one shared belief – the NHS would be hugely missed”

Wednesday 27^th June 2018 – 10.45am – Murray MacGregor.

A motorcyclist has suffered potentially serious injuries after a collision with a car.

It happened at about 6.55pm on Tuesday evening outside The Swan pub on Droitwich Rd in Martin Hussingtree between Worcester and Droitwich.

Two ambulances, a paramedic officer and the MERIT trauma doctor and critical care paramedic were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “A nurse who was on scene told ambulance staff that the rider had initially been unconscious.

“He was assessed at the scene and treated for multiple injuries.  He was given strong pain relief and had his wounds dressed before he was taken on blue lights by ambulance to the major trauma centre at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham; the doctor and critical care paramedic travelled with the crew.

“No-one else was hurt.”

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Wednesday 27^th June 2018 – 9.35am – Murray MacGregor.

A motorcyclist has been airlifted to a major trauma centre after suffering potentially serious injuries after a collision with a 4×4 vehicle.

It happened at about 5.20pm in Rye Street in the Birtsmorton area of South Worcestershire.

An ambulance, a paramedic officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham were initially sent. An ambulance from South Western Ambulance Service also attended.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival ambulance staff found a motorcycle that was badly damaged; the fuel tank had split after the collision with the side of the 4×4 vehicle.

“After an initial assessment of the patient, the crews requested a doctor be sent to the scene so the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford was also dispatched.

“The rider, who is in his 40s, had suffered multiple injuries.  His had a splint applied, was immobilised and given pain relief before being airlifted to the major trauma centre at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham.

“The driver of the 4×4 was uninjured.”

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Tuesday 26^th June 2018 – 5.00pm – Murray MacGregor.

A motorcyclist has suffered potentially serious injuries after his bike was in collision with a van.

The incident happened on Weddington Road in Nuneaton at about 1.30pm.

The first ambulance arrived within seven minutes and was backed up by a second ambulance, the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance and a paramedic officer.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival, crews found a man estimate to be in his 60s who had suffered multiple injuries.

“He was immobilised and treated on scene before being taken on blue lights to the major trauma centre at University Hospital Coventry & Warwickshire.  He was treated by the crew, the doctor and the critical care paramedic from the air ambulance and another paramedic from the second ambulance.

“The van driver was uninjured.”

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Tuesday 26^th June 2018 – 12:50pm – Murray MacGregor.

The search for the missing 13-year-old boy at Westport Lake, Stoke-on-Trent is continuing.

Teams from West Midlands Ambulance Service, Staffordshire Police, Nottinghamshire Police specialist dive team and Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service are continuing to work together to search the area.

Our Hazardous Area Response Team are using dry suits and boats to search the banks of the lake.

The family of the missing teenager continue to be supported by family liaison officers from Staffordshire Police.

Two other boys, aged 12 and 13, made it safely out of the lake and were not injured.

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Tuesday 26^th June 2018 – 9.25am – Murray MacGregor.

Five people have been treated by ambulance staff after a serious two car crash.

It happened at about 8.45pm last night (Monday) on the A454 near Swancote, about two miles from Bridgnorth.

Four ambulances, three ambulance officers and the MERIT Trauma Doctor and critical care paramedic were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival, ambulance staff found two cars that had suffered significant damage.

“There were three people in a small silver car: the driver, a man in his 30s had multiple injuries. He was trapped for around half an hour.  He was anaesthetised at the scene, was immobilised and had a pelvic binder put in place before being taken on blue lights to the major trauma centre at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham; the doctor travelled with the crew.

“The front seat passenger, a man in his 40s, was taken to the major trauma centre at Royal Stoke University Hospital with potentially serious injuries.

“The rear seat passenger, who was in his 30s had managed to get out of the car and had less serious injuries to his face and right arm. There was also a question as to whether he had been knocked out for a period.  After being immobilised and given pain relief, he was taken to the trauma unit at New Cross Hospital in Wolverhampton.

“There were two people in the second car: the driver, a man in his 30s had leg injuries.  He was splinted, given pain relief and taken to Royal Shrewsbury Hospital.  A woman in her 20s had minor injuries and was discharged at the scene.”

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Monday 25th June – 11.45pm – Murray MacGregor.

Sadly, all of our resources at the scene of a missing child at Westport Lake in Stoke have been stood down for the night.

We were initially called at 4.48pm on Monday afternoon after reports of a child getting into difficulty in the lake; two other youngsters had got out unharmed.

A large number of resources including ambulances, paramedic officers, the Hazardous Area Response Team, doctors and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Staffordshire were initially sent to the scene.

Around 11pm, the search was, called off for the night.

Our Hazardous Area Response Team (@WMASHART) will be a back in the morning to resume the search along with our colleagues from Staffordshire Police and Fire colleagues StaffsPolice and @StaffsFire

End

Friday 22^nd June 2018 – 4.45pm – Claire Brown.

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

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to reports of an RTC involving a car and a motorcycle on the A495 near Narrow Boat Inn, Whittington, Oswestry shortly after 1.00pm (Friday). Two ambulances and a paramedic officer were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “When ambulance staff arrived they found bystanders administering CPR to the motorcyclist. Sadly, nothing could be done by ambulance staff to save the man, and he was confirmed dead on scene.

“The driver and passenger from the car, a man and a woman, were assessed on scene and were found to have sustained minor injuries. Neither required hospital treatment and were discharged on scene.

ENDS

Monday 18^th June 2018 – 4pm – Jamie Arrowsmith.

A collision between a car and a lorry on the M6 this afternoon left a man trapped for about an hour and requiring treatment from ambulance staff before being taken to hospital.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the northbound carriage of the M6, near to junction 3A, at 1.30pm and sent one ambulance and the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival, crews discovered a car and lorry that had been involved in a collision. The car had subsequently also collided with the central reservation.

“There was one patient, a man believed to be in his 40s who was trapped inside his car.

“Ambulance staff assessed the man and monitored his condition throughout as the fire service worked to cut him free, a process that took approximately an hour.

“Once out, the man, who was fully conscious throughout, was treated for neck, back and shoulder pain. He was immobilised and given pain relief and taken to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire by land ambulance.

“Unsurprisingly, the incident led to heavy traffic delays in the area.”

ENDS

Monday 18^th June 2018 – 3.30pm – Jamie Arrowsmith.

A man had to be cut free through the roof of his car this afternoon following a three-vehicle collision that resulted in three people being taken to hospital.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Silkmore Lane in Stafford at 1.16pm and sent two ambulances, a paramedic officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Staffordshire to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival, crews discovered a van and two cars that had been involved in a collision with one of the cars having come to rest on its side.

“The driver of that car, an elderly man, was trapped as a result of the damage caused to his vehicle.

“Following an initial assessment from ambulance staff, the fire service worked to cut the man free with his condition continually being monitored throughout. He was trapped for approximately 20 minutes.

“Thankfully the man appeared to have avoided serious injury in the incident but was treated for chest pain. He was then transported to Royal Stoke University Hospital for further assessment.

“There were a further two patients, both from the van. A man and a woman, both believed to be in their 50s, were assessed at the scene and treated for minor injuries before also being taken to Royal Stoke University Hospital as a precaution.”

ENDS

Notes to Editors: If used, please credit the images to West Midlands Ambulance Service.

Thursday 14^th June 2018 – 8.35am – Jamie Arrowsmith.

A man has died following a collision between a car and a motorbike last night (Wednesday).

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the junction of Hall Green Road and Almond Tree Avenue in Coventry at 6.31pm. Two ambulances, a paramedic officer and the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance Critical Care Car was sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival, crews discovered the motorcyclist, a man, in cardiac arrest following the collision.

“Ambulance staff performed CPR and administered advanced life support but unfortunately it became apparent nothing could be done to save him and he was confirmed dead at the scene.

“The driver of the car, a man in his 20s, was treated for the effects of shock and discharged at the scene.”

ENDS

Wednesday 13^th June 2018 – 3.30pm – Claire Brown.

One of the UKs most anticipated diversity awards celebrations has opened its nominations for the upcoming ceremony and the Trust’s LGBT Network is in the running for one of the awards.

The Excellence in Diversity Awards will illustrate some of the nation’s most inclusive organisations at the ceremony on the 15^th November in Manchester to honour those that lead in diversity, inclusion and fairness in all aspects of diversity.

The Trust’s Proud@WMAS LGBT Network has been nominated in the ‘Outstanding Diversity Network’ category and, in order to be in with a chance of picking up the top prize we need your support!

The judging panel will look for certain criteria for each award but there will also be a certain amount of merits based on the quantity and quality of supporting nominations received.

Ash Deakins, the Trust’s LGBT Network Chairman said: “We’re really proud to have been considered for this award as it shows we’re recognised nationally for the work that we do to promote and support the LGBT community. We attended Birmingham Pride recently and we were overwhelmed with the amount of people who came to say hello and thank us for the work we do.”

If you think we should win and would like to support our nomination in the ‘Outstanding Diversity Network Award’, please visit http://www.excellenceindiversity.co.uk/outstanding-diversity-network-2/ and complete the form. Please use the nominee name ‘Proud@WMAS – West Midlands Ambulance Service’ and nominee email address ash.deakins@wmas.nhs.uk and don’t forget to include the reason why you are nominating us!

ENDS

Tuesday 12^th June 2018 – 3.01pm – Murray MacGregor.

Two people have been taken to hospital, but over 30 escaped injury after a coach crashed at the entrance to a motorway service station

“The incident happened at entrance to the northbound Corley Services on the M6 motorway at just after 1.00pm today (Tuesday).

An ambulance, a paramedic officer and the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival, crews found a single decker coach that had collided with a crash barrier at the entrance to the slip road.  The coach had suffered significant damage.

“The driver of the coach had suffered a head injury.  He was taken to University Hospital Coventry & Warwickshire for further assessment and treatment along with a middle-aged man who had been in the front row of seats who was complaining of a chest injury.

“A total of 37 other passengers were assessed at the scene but were uninjured.  They were provided with advice and taken into the service station for safety while a replacement coach was brought to the scene.

“Ambulance staff said the incident could have been significantly worse had the coach not stayed on its wheels.”

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Monday 11^th June 2018 – 11.0am – Claire Brown.

A cyclist needed advanced trauma care after being involved in a serious RTC in Birmingham last night.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Bordesley Green East, Bordesley Green, Birmingham at 10.40pm yesterday (Sunday). Two ambulances, a paramedic officer and a MERIT trauma doctor attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Crews arrived to find a cyclist, a man, who had been involved in a collision with a car and was being looked after by bystanders. Ambulance staff found the man had sustained a serious head injury and required swift advanced trauma care to help stabilise his condition. The man was taken by land ambulance on blue lights to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham; the doctor travelled with the ambulance crew to continue treatment and monitoring en route.”

ENDS

The Trust’s Recruitment Team were the proud recipients of the winning trophy at a prestigious HR awards ceremony in London last night (Thursday 7th June).

Read More “Recruitment team scoop HR excellence award”

Tuesday 5^th June 2018 – 11.15am – Jamie Arrowsmith.

A man has died following a two-car road traffic collision in the early hours of this morning.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the junction of Station Street West and Foleshill Road, Coventry, shortly after 2.20am and sent two ambulances and a paramedic officer to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews arrived to find a man in cardiac arrest with a bystander already performing CPR.

“Ambulance staff took over but sadly it became apparent that nothing could be done to save him and he was confirmed dead at the scene.

“From the second car, ambulance staff assessed a man for a hand injury before he was discharged at the scene.”

Ends.

Monday 4^th June 2016 – 4.30pm – Jamie Arrowsmith.

Two of the region’s Community First Responder (CFR) groups have received the most prestigious award a voluntary organisation can get.

Rugeley and District CFRs and Burntwood and Cannock Chase CFRs have been recognised with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service for 2018 for providing emergency medical aid, training and lifesaving equipment to those living and working in their local community.

CFRs are members of the public from all walks of life who give up their spare time to help make a difference in their communities. They offer an invaluable service by way of helping to reach those people suffering from medical emergencies in the remote rural communities, prior to the arrival of an ambulance. For many illnesses or injuries, the first few minutes are critical and simple interventions can be performed in order to save lives or prevent disability. As well as providing care for people in their local area, the CFRs also spend a considerable amount of time teaching other people vital first aid and life-saving skills.

Rugeley and District CFRs’ Group Co-Ordinator, Sean Cooper, said: “We are extremely proud and honoured to have received this award for the recognition of our commitment and the work which significantly benefits our local community. We are really grateful that our community took the time to nominate us for this award and have always shown their outstanding support towards our group and our responders.”

Dan Walsh, Burntwood and Cannock Chase CFRs Group Co-Ordinator, said: “Receiving an award such as this is incredibly exciting and rewarding. When we received the news that we had won the award, we were so happy. Our team of responders and fundraisers work incredibly hard for our community and to be rewarded for this at such a high level is something we should all be proud of.”

WMAS Chief Executive, Anthony Marsh said: “To see the two CFR groups recognised in this way is absolutely fantastic and thoroughly well-deserved. I am extremely proud of both of them.

“The role CFR groups play in the success of West Midlands Ambulance Service cannot be underestimated. CFRs do a tremendous job and put in a huge amount of hours in their own time to help patients in their hour of need. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our CFRs for the work they do on a daily basis.”

Both CFR Groups are set to receive their awards from the Lord Lieutenant later this year.

For more information about the groups, to make a donation or find out more about joining them, please go to: http://www.burntwoodcfr.org.uk and www.radcfr.com.

Note to Editors

Picture Captions:

Burntwood – Group Co-Ordinator, Dan Walsh, and Treasurer, Eddie Malpass, are pictured at the Queen’s Garden Party at Buckingham Palace last week.

Rugeley – Rugeley and District CFRs.

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Friday 1^st June 2018 – 9.25am – Jamie Arrowsmith.

A boy has died and two further patients have been taken to hospital following a collision between a car and a lorry on the M6 last night (Thursday).

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the incident between junctions 6 and 5 on the southbound carriageway at 7.37pm and sent two ambulances, a paramedic officer and a MERIT trauma doctor to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews arrived to find three patients, all of whom had been travelling in the car.

“The boy was found to be in cardiac arrest and ambulance staff immediately began CPR.

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

“A man, believed to be in his 60s, was treated for a suspected fractured shoulder and a woman, believed to be in her 20s, was treated for a leg injury. They were both taken to Heartlands Hospital in the same ambulance.

“The lorry driver, a man, was uninjured in the incident.”

Ends

Thursday 31^st May 2018 – 4.40pm – Murray MacGregor.

Ambulance staff were put on standby after a man dredged up an unexploded grenade from a canal.

The incident happened in a canal off Lathe Way, near Kingsbury Road in Castle Vale at just before noon.

Two paramedic officers and the Hazardous Area Response Team were initially sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “A cordon was put in place until the EOD team came and assessed the item.  After an initial assessment, the HART team were stood down.

“The EOD team decided the safest option was to blow the grenade up and it was transferred to Pype Hayes Park in Erdington where it was destroyed in a controlled explosion.

“The paramedic officers provided medical cover while the explosion took place.”

Ends

Wednesday 30^th May 2018 – 11.30am – Jamie Arrowsmith.

The best efforts of ambulance and hospital staff were sadly not enough to save a teenage boy who died following an incident in Wolverhampton last night.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to reports of a stabbing on Strathfield Walk at 11.08pm and sent two ambulances, a paramedic officer and a rapid response paramedic to the scene. The first ambulance arrived in less than three minutes from when the 999 call was made.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews arrived to find a 15-year-old boy with serious injuries. The team of ambulance staff worked quickly to begin administering advanced life support to him at the scene and this continued as he was transferred to New Cross Hospital.

“Sadly, shortly after arrival at hospital it became apparent nothing could be done to save him and he was confirmed deceased.”

West Midlands Police are appealing for anyone with information about this incident to call 101; quoting log number 3060 of 29/5/18.

ENDS

Monday 28^th May 2018 – 11:00am – Murray MacGregor.

One man has died after a car was submerged in flood water.

The incident happened in Lichfield Road in the Rushall area of Walsall at about 2.20am this morning (Monday).

Two ambulances, a paramedic officer and the Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival, ambulance staff found a flooded road with two vehicles in the water.

“Firefighters who had entered the water had found an elderly man at the vehicle and taken him to an ambulance crew who were at the water’s edge. The ambulance crew carried out advanced life support before taking the man to Walsall Manor Hospital, but sadly he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

“In total, four HART paramedics entered the water and worked with West Midlands Fire Service Technical Rescue staff.

“A second person was found in the water but was unhurt.  It is not believed that this person was from one of the vehicles. The second vehicle is believed to have been in situ for some time.

“With the rain over the weekend, there are still a number of roads affected by floodwater.  Please ensure that you take extra time on your travelling today and heed any warning signs.”

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Thursday 24^th May 2018 – 4.30pm – Jamie Arrowsmith.

A man has died after falling from his motorbike this afternoon.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to reports of a motorcyclist who had been in collision with street furniture on the A518 between Uttoxeter and Stafford shortly before 1pm. Two ambulances, a paramedic officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Staffordshire were to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival, crews discovered the man in cardiac arrest. Ambulance staff immediately began CPR and also administered advanced life support.

“However, sadly it became apparent that nothing could be done to save him and he was confirmed dead at the scene.”

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Thursday 24^th May 2018 – 10.15am – Jamie Arrowsmith

A motorcyclist has died following a road traffic collision with a car yesterday afternoon (Wednesday).

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Whitehall Road in Hampton Bishop, Hereford at 4.15pm and sent two ambulances, a paramedic officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham, with a doctor on board, to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival, crews discovered a woman in cardiac arrest. An off-duty nurse and an off-duty firefighter had stopped at the scene and were performing excellent CPR.

“Ambulance staff took over and also administered advanced life support but unfortunately it became apparent nothing could be done to save her and she was confirmed dead at the scene.

“A second motorcyclist, a man, and the car driver, a woman, were assessed for the effects of shock but were able to be discharged at the scene.”

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Friday 18th May 2018 – 11.00am – Murray MacGregor.

A workman who injured his ankles has had a most unusual journey to hospital … in a fire service aerial ladder platform.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Royal Shrewsbury Hospital at about 10.45am on Thursday morning to reports of a man who had fallen on a roof.

An ambulance and a paramedic officer were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival it became apparent that the workman, who was in his 30’s, had not fallen per se.  He told ambulance staff that as he stepped off a ladder onto a plank on the roof, his foot slipped off to the side. As he tried to regain balance he put his other foot down on the plank which also slipped off the side leaving him with two twisted ankles.

“Ambulance staff requested assistance and Shropshire Fire Service who sent fire engines and the aerial ladder platform.

“While they arrived, ambulance staff splinted the man’s left ankle and provided pain relief.

“The ALP was then used to access the site from the opposite side of the building. The man was then helped onto the platform and lowered to the waiting Ambulance which took the man literally around the corner to A&E.

“It was certainly an unusual form of transport to hospital but shows the excellent teamwork between emergency services.”

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Thursday 17^th May 2018 – 5.30pm – Claire Brown.

Despite the tremendous efforts of ambulance staff, a teenage boy has sadly died in Sutton Coldfield this afternoon.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to reports of a stabbing in Lower Parade, Sutton Coldfield at around 3.30pm (Thursday). An ambulance, a paramedic officer, the West Midlands Central Accident Resuscitation Emergency (CARE) team medics and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Tatenhill airbase were responded to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Crews arrived to find a 16-year-old boy with serious injuries. The team of ambulance staff worked quickly to begin administering advanced life support to the boy at the scene. Sadly, nothing could be done to save the boy and he was confirmed dead a short time later.

West Midlands Police are appealing for anyone with information about this incident to call 101; quoting log number 1588 of 17/05/18.”

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Monday 14^th May 2018 – 5.45pm – Murray MacGregor.

A woman has been airlifted to a major trauma centre while three other patients have been taken to hospital after a two-car crash.

The incident happened at about 4.00pm on Sunday near Jones Coaches, on the A465 at Ocle Pychard in Herefordshire.

Three ambulances, a paramedic officer, two BASICS Emergency doctors from the MARS scheme and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “When crews arrived, they found two cars that both had extensive front end damage.  One car, a BMW was against a hedge.

“There were two people in each car.  The most seriously injured patient was the woman driving the BMW.  The woman in her 30s had possible internal injuries.  She was given pain relief, was immobilised before being airlifted to the major trauma centre at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham.

“A baby boy from the car was uninjured but was taken to Hereford County Hospital by ambulance as a precaution.

“In the other car was a woman in her 40s with shoulder, hip and wrist pain and a teenage girl with hip pain.  Both were assessed at the scene before also being taken to Hereford County Hospital for further assessment.”

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Monday 14^th May 2018 – 3.15pm – Murray MacGregor.

A woman has died and two men have suffered serious injuries after a three car collision.

It happened at about 7.40pm on Sunday evening on the A49 Ludlow Road, between Leominster and Stockton.

Three ambulances, a paramedic officer, two BASICS Emergency Doctors from the MARS scheme and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival, ambulance staff found three cars a BMW, a Skoda and a Peugeot that had been involved in a collision.

“Tragically, a woman in the Skoda was confirmed deceased at the scene of the crash.

“There were two men in the BMW, both who were severely trapped.  Ambulance staff and the doctors worked with firefighters to free the men, who were both believed to be in their 20s.

“It took over an hour to free the first man.  He had suffered multiple fractures.  He was immobilised had splints fitted and was then taken to the major trauma centre at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham with one of the doctors travelling with the ambulance crew.

“The second man was trapped for around 50 minutes.  He had suffered multiple injuries. After being immobilised and given pain relief, he was airlifted to the major trauma centre at University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire.

“The driver and passenger in Peugeot were uninjured.”

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Thursday 10^th May 2018 – 5.30pm – Jamie Arrowsmith.

A woman has been airlifted and taken to one of the region’s major trauma centres after falling whilst walking on the Malvern Hills this afternoon.

The incident, just after 12.05pm, happened near to Chase End in Bromsberrow, on the edge of the Malvern Hills. One ambulance, a paramedic officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “The patient, a woman in her 60s, had come to rest on a flat area of ground following a fall down a steep embankment, in which it is believed she hit a branch.

“The Air Ambulance was the first resource on scene, followed by the crew and officer, who made their way on foot from the nearest road access, approximately three-quarters of a mile away.

“Transporting the woman back to the land ambulance would have been an almost impossible task due to the distance and the terrain, so the decision was made to carry her back to the top of the hill where the air ambulance had landed.

“Following treatment for abdominal and shoulder injuries, the patient was immobilised with the use of a scoop stretcher and given pain relief.

“Ambulance staff, together with numerous bystanders, then carried the woman to the air ambulance, on which she was airlifted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham for further treatment.”

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Thursday 3^rd May 2018 – 5.00pm – Murray MacGregor.

A motorcyclist has been taken to a major trauma centre after coming off his bike on a dual carriageway and colliding with a lamppost.

The incident happened on the Wolverhampton Ring Road, just beside the Molineux football ground.

An ambulance and a non-emergency ambulance both came across the incident four minutes after the initial call at 1.20pm.  A paramedic officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford, with a trauma doctor and critical care paramedic on board, were also sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival, the rider was found some distance from his motorcycle with his helmet off.

The man in his 30s had suffered serious injuries to his legs.  He was given pain relief, was immobilised and had both legs and pelvis splinted before being taken by land ambulance to the major trauma centre at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham; the doctor travelled with the patient.”

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Thursday 3rd May 2018 – 11.49am – Murray MacGregor.

A motorcyclist has died after a crash with a car.

It happened around 8.40pm on Wednesday night in Stoke on Trent, on the slip road off the southbound A500 leading to City Road where Glebe Street passes overhead, .

An ambulance, a paramedic officer and a BASICS Emergency Doctor from the North Staffs scheme attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival, ambulance staff found a man who had suffered very serious injuries.  Sadly, it quickly became apparent that there was nothing that could be done to save him and he was confirmed dead at the scene.

“The car driver was not injured.”

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Thursday 3^rd May 2018 – 9.49am – Murray MacGregor.

Two cyclists have been injured, one seriously, after they were involved in a collision with a car.

The incident, which happened at around 8.45pm on Wednesday evening, happened outside New Cross Hospital in Wolverhampton and left the two bicycles completely destroyed and the car on its side on the pavement.

An ambulance was on scene in six minutes and was backed up by a second ambulance, a paramedic officer and the MERIT trauma doctor and critical care paramedic.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival the man and woman cyclists were found some distance from their bikes.

“The woman, who was in her 40s, had suffered suspected fractures to an arm and a leg.  Both were splinted before she was taken on blue lights to the major trauma centre at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham.

“The man, who was in his 50s had multiple lacerations and bruising to his legs.  He travelled with the woman to hospital.

“The driver of the car was not seen by ambulance staff.”

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Wednesday 2^nd May 2018 – 12.45pm – Murray MacGregor.

A man was trapped for well over an hour after a crash on a busy dual carriageway this morning.

The crash happened on the A45 Fletchampstead Highway, close to the railway line, in the Canley area of Coventry at just before 9.30am this morning.

An ambulance arrived on scene in just four minutes and was backed up by a paramedic officer and the aircrew of the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance, who responded in a car.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “When ambulance staff arrived they found a car that had collided with a pole and had ended up on the crash barrier at the side of the road at an angle.

“Due to the way the vehicle ended up, it was a difficult job to free the man from the vehicle safely.  Ambulance staff worked closely with firefighters to extricate the man, who had suffered potentially serious trauma injuries.  In total it took about 80 minutes to get him out.

“The man, who was estimated to be in his mid-30s, was immobilised and had a pelvic binder placed on him before he was taken on blue lights to the major trauma centre at University Hospital Coventry & Warwickshire; the air ambulance doctor travelled with the ambulance crew.”

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Wednesday 2^nd May 2018 – 10.45am – Murray MacGregor.

Three young men have been hurt, two potentially seriously after a single vehicle rollover RTC.

It happened on Gayhill Lane in the Kings Norton area of south Birmingham at just after midnight.

The first ambulance arrived seven minutes after a 999 call from a member of the public who had come across the crash.  A second ambulance, a paramedic officer and the MERIT trauma doctor and critical care paramedic were also sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival, ambulance staff found a car that had suffered significant damage.

“A man of around 20 years was found in a field nearby.  While ambulance staff assessed his condition, firefighters opened a gap in the hedge and fence so that he could be brought to the ambulance.

“The man was anaesthetised at the scene and immobilised before being taken on blue lights to the major trauma centre at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham with the doctor accompanying the crew.

“An 18-year-old man was also taken on blue lights to the same hospital with multiple bruising and lacerations after he was found beside a bush next to the car.

“A third man who was also 18 had self-extricated.  He had suffered a nasty laceration but was otherwise uninjured.  He was taken to the same hospital.”

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Tuesday 1st May 2018 – 8.40am – Jamie Arrowsmith.

A pedestrian has been taken to one of the region’s major trauma centres following a collision with a car last night (Monday).

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Wolverhampton Road, Oldbury, near to the Ramada Hotel, at 10.56pm and sent one ambulance and a rapid response paramedic to the scene. An off-duty student paramedic also stopped at the scene to help.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews arrived to find a man, believed to be in his 50s, who had been injured in collision with a car.

“He was treated for serious leg injuries as well as minor injuries to his head and chest.

“The man, who was conscious throughout his treatment, was given pain relief and immobilised with the use of a scoop stretcher and vacuum splint, before being taken on alert to Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham.”

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