News

Tuesday 16th April 2013 – 10.30pm – Claire Brown.

A man has died in a road traffic collision in Wolverhampton.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to reports of a collision involving a motorcyclist and a car on the Birmingham New Road in Coseley, near to Silver Jubilee Park shortly before 6.30pm earlier this evening (Tuesday). Two ambulance crews, two responder paramedics, a MERIT trauma doctor and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Crews arrived to find a motorcyclist and a car which had been in collision. The motorcyclist, a man, suffered multiple serious injuries and was in cardiac arrest. An off duty nurse and other bystanders were doing CPR. Crews immediately took over resuscitation efforts at the roadside to administer advanced life support.

“The man was airlifted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham with the doctor and paramedic continuing vital treatment en route. Sadly, despite best efforts, nothing could be done to save the man and he was confirmed dead on arrival at hospital.

“The driver of the car suffered cuts and bruises and was taken to Russells Hall Hospital as a precaution.”

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Notes to Editors: I have no more details regarding this incident.

Tuesday 16th April 2013 – 10.35am – Chris Kowalik.

An appeal has been launched for Community First Responders (CFRs) in Worcestershire.

Volunteers are particularly needed in Droitwich, Pershore, Tenbury Wells, Malvern and Evesham.

CFRs are everyday members of the public who are trained in lifesaving techniques including the use of a defibrillator, a device used to restart the heart of someone who has suffered a cardiac arrest. Their availability, close proximity and local knowledge of the area are among their many assets.

CFRs will be called by the ambulance service’s control room to medical emergencies in their area while an ambulance is en route. They are vital in life-threatening situations, particularly in the case of a cardiac arrest, stroke and trauma when every minute counts.

Jenny Sears-Brown, Community Response Manager Support Officer for Worcestershire, said: “Volunteers come from all walks of life. When they make themselves available to respond they can continue to go about their daily lives, but if an emergency call is received by the ambulance service within a five or six mile radius, they are sent and always backed-up by an emergency ambulance service vehicle.

“To volunteer, you must be aged 18 or over, have a full driving licence and lots of enthusiasm.

“Help will be provided in obtaining the necessary equipment and no previous experience is necessary as West Midlands Ambulance Service will provide the training.

Applicants will attend a nationally recognised training course; covering Basic Life Support and Defibrillation, Medical Emergencies, Traumatic Emergencies and Preparing for Active Duty. They will then train alongside ambulance crews and a before going ‘live’”.

Michelle Brotherton, West Midlands Ambulance Service General Manager for the West Mercia area said: “We really support Community First Responders and call upon them to help their local community. Community First Responders are an integral part of the ambulance service. The work they do is outstanding and is greatly valued. It’s about giving something back to their local community. In a life-threatening case every minute makes a difference.”

For more information about the work of Community First Responders or to become one yourself, contact Jenny Sears-Brown on 07795 497 937 or via jenny.sbrown@wmas.nhs.uk . Alternatively contact the CFR admin office on (01384 215 855) or via CFRAdmin@wmas.nhs.uk

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Monday 15^th April 2013 – 4.00pm – Suzie Fothergill.  

A motorist has had a lucky escape following a road traffic collision on the motorway today.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to reports of a collision between a car and a lorry near to Junction T3 on the M6 Toll shortly before 10.30am this morning.

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

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “On arrival at the scene crews found a car and a lorry that had been in collision. The car had suffered significant front end damage.

“The driver of the car, a man believed to be in his 30’s, was out of the vehicle on the crew’s arrival. The man was assessed and treated for minor injuries to his wrists and ankles before being discharged at the scene.

“Considering the nature of the incident the man was extremely fortunate to not have suffered more serious injuries. 

“No one else was injured in the incident.”

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Notes to Editors

If used, images must be credited to West Midlands Ambulance Service.

Monday 15^th April 2013 – 3.00pm – Suzie Fothergill.

A man has been airlifted to hospital following a road traffic collision in Herefordshire today.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the incident near to Whitestone Business Park in Whitestone, Hereford shortly after 8.35am this morning.

Two ambulances, a paramedic area support officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham were dispatched to the scene. An off duty paramedic was also in attendance.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “On arrival at the scene crews found two cars that had been in collision.

“The driver of one of the cars was found to be trapped in the vehicle. The patient was released, with the assistance of the fire service, and treated for potential internal injuries and neck pain.

“The casualty, a man believed to be in his 60’s, was given pain relief at the scene and fully immobilised before being conveyed to the major trauma centre at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham for further assessment and treatment.

“A second patient was assessed at the scene but did not require further hospital treatment.”

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Sunday 14^h April 2013 – 9.30pm – John Hawker.

A woman has died following an RTC in Staffordshire this afternoon.

The crash occurred on the A500, between Talke and Audley, towards Junction 16 of the M6 at around 3.40pm.  An ambulance, a rapid response vehicle, a paramedic officer, two BASICS Doctors and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford with a further BASICS Doctors on board attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews arrived to find a car that had been in a significant collision with a tree.

“The driver of the car had suffered series injuries and then went into cardiac arrest.

“Advanced life support was immediately carried out and the woman was transferred by land ambulance to University Hospital North Staffordshire with resuscitation attempts continuing en route.  

“Unfortunately, despite the best efforts of medics, nothing could be done to save the woman and she was confirmed dead shortly after arriving at hospital.”

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We have no further details on this incident. 

Sunday 14^th April 2013 – 5.40pm – John Hawker.

The rider of a motorcycle had a lucky escape following an RTC on the M40 between Junctions 16 and 15 Southbound this afternoon.

The crash occurred at around 2.40pm with an off duty paramedic being first on scene.  An ambulance and a paramedic officer also attended the incident.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “An off duty WMAS paramedic was first on the scene and found a motorcyclist that had fallen from his motorcycle in the outside lane of the motorway.

“The man, believed to be 32 years old, received emergency treatment at the scene by the paramedic, who was then joined by colleagues who continued with treatment.

 “The man suffered back and hand injuries and was immobilised using a spinal board and neck collar.  He also received pain relief as he was transferred to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire for further treatment.

 “The hospital had been alerted to the patient’s arrival and his injuries.

“Considering where the man had fallen off his machine, he man was extremely fortunate not to have suffered more serious or even fatal injuries.  Thankfully the motorcyclist was wearing full safety clothing which undoubtedly helped minimise his injuries.”

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We have no further details on this incident. 

Sunday 14^h April 2013 – 5.00pm – John Hawker.

A man has died following an RTC on the M42 this morning.

The crash occurred between junctions 10 and 9, Southbound at around 8am.  An ambulance, a paramedic officer and the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews arrived to find a car that rolled over and was up the embankment of the motorway.

“The driver of the car had suffered multiple serious injuries and was in traumatic cardiac arrest.  Advanced life support was carried, but unfortunately despite the best efforts of ambulance crews, nothing could be done to save the man and he was confirmed dead at the scene.”

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We have no further details on this incident

Saturday 13^th April 2013 – 9.45am – John Hawker. 

Three people have been injured, one seriously in a house fire in Staffordshire in the early hours of this morning.

The fire occurred at a house in Ellams Place, Knutton, at around 12.40am.  Two ambulances, a paramedic officer and a BASICS Doctor attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews arrived to find a man, believed to be in his 30’s, with serious burn injuries to his back, arms and feet following a house fire.

“The man received emergency treatment at the scene using specialist burn packs and also received pain relief.  He was transferred by ambulance to University Hospital North Staffordshire for further emergency treatment.

“A woman and young baby also in the property at the time of the fire were treated at the scene for the effects of smoke inhalation.  Both were transferred by ambulance to the same hospital for further treatment.”

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We have no further details on this incident. 

Friday 12^th April 2013 – 11.15pm – John Hawker.

A driver has been trapped in her car for around 40 minutes after it left the road and hit a tree in Warwickshire this evening.

The crash occurred on Lighthorne Road, Kineton, at around 6.55pm.  An ambulance, a rapid response vehicle and a paramedic officer attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews arrived to find a car that had left the road and been in collision with a tree.

“The driver of the car, a woman believed to be in her early 20’s, suffered serious leg injuries and also suspected neck and back injuries.

“The woman received emergency treatment and stabilised before being extricated from the vehicle with the help of the fire service.  She was trapped for around 40 minutes.

“The woman was then transferred by ambulance to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire for further emergency treatment.”

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We have no further details on this incident. 

 

Friday 12^th April 2013 – 10.30pm – John Hawker.

Three people have been injured, one seriously following an RTC on the M6 Toll Road this afternoon.

 The crash occurred between junctions T7 and T6, Southbound at around 3.50pm.  Two ambulances, a rapid response vehicle, a paramedic officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Staffordshire attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews arrived to reports of three vehicles that had been in a crash.

“A woman driving one car, believed to be in her mid 20’s, suffered serious leg injuries and was trapped the vehicle.  She received emergency treatment at the scene and her condition was stabilised.  The woman was extricated from the vehicle and was airlifted to University Hospital North Staffordshire for further emergency treatment.

“A man and a woman who were travelling in the other vehicles both suffered minor injuries and were treated at the scene.  Both were transferred by land ambulance to Walsall Manor Hospital for further treatment.”

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We have no further details on this incident and we are unable to do condition checks. 

West Midlands Ambulance Service is currently recruiting qualified paramedics and technicians. To find out more and to apply, please visit www.jobs.nhs.uk and search for West Midlands Ambulance Service.

   

Thursday 11^th April 2013 – 4.30pm – Claire Thomas.

Lorry drivers are to be trained in life saving first aid with help from West Midlands Ambulance Service as part of a national road safety initiative.

Driver First Assist (DFA), launched at the Commercial Vehicles Show in Birmingham this week, is an initiative to provide professional drivers with first aid training to help at the scene of road traffic collisions whilst emergency services are en route.

Supported by all three emergency services through the Association of Ambulance Chief Executives (AACE), the Association of Chief Police Officers and the Chief Fire Officers Association, The training programme for DFA has been developed by the Central Motorways Police Group with input from West Midlands Ambulance Service.

The one day course covers life-saving first aid and scene management enabling lorry drivers to give vital aid if they come across a road traffic collision. Drivers from the logistics industry are to be the first to receive training in the coming months. The training also counts towards the profession’s Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC).

The Trust will be running ‘Train the Trainer’ courses to fellow ambulance services through the NHS Ambulance Service First Aid training consortium (NASFA) over the next few months to provide local trainers across the country to support the DFA initiative.

AACE Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of West Midlands Ambulance Service, Dr Anthony Marsh said: “The Association of Ambulance Chief Executives is delighted to endorse this important programme.

“We look forward to working in partnership with DFA to ensure the highest standard of first aid training is provided to all who participate. Sadly, road traffic collisions sometimes result in people suffering life threatening injuries where every minute counts to their chances of survival.

“By providing professional driver, who are often first to witness or come across such incidents, with basic life support training and the knowledge to know what to do will ultimately mean patients get the care they need whilst emergency help is en route.”

David Higginbottom from Driver First Assist said: “We believe we have an effective strategy to train a significant number of drivers, starting with HGV drivers. Our vision is for thousands of trained personnel equipped to take action in the first critical moments after an RTC.”

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Notes to Editors:

Pictured (left to right): Malcolm Price (WMAS Commercial Services Development Manager), David Higginbottom (Driver First Assist) and PC Steve Rounds (Central Motorways Police Group) pictured at the Commercial Vehicles Show at the NEC.

For more information about Driver First Assist please contact Automotive PR Ltd on 0207 952 1070 or email mhayes@automotivepr.com.

 

Wednesday 10^th April 2013 – 3.45pm – Suzie Fothergill.  

A man has been taken to hospital following an incident in Birmingham today.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to a road traffic collision on the A446 Pool Island in Coleshill at approximately 7.20am this morning.

An ambulance, a rapid response vehicle, a senior paramedic ambulance officer and a community first responder were dispatched to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “On arrival at the scene crews found a lorry that had overturned on to its side.

“The driver of the lorry, a man, had sustained a head injury. The man was treated at the scene and was fully immobilised before being conveyed to Heartlands Hospital for further assessment and treatment.”

Ends 

Notes to Editors

If the image is used please credit West Midlands Ambulance Service.

Monday 8th Aprtil 2013 – 8pm – Steve Parry.

A lorry driver and road users on the M6 Toll had an ‘amazing’ escape according to ambulance crews after a lorry left a flyover on the M42 and crashed onto the M6 Toll near Coleshill.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the incident near T1 on M6 Toll just before 6.30pm.

An ambulance together with a paramedic officer in a rapid response vehicle and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Ambulance crews responded to a road traffic collision following reports of a lorry coming off a flyover on the M42 and landing on the northbound M6 Toll road.   

 “Crews treated the lorry driver, a man in his 50s, for serious lower leg fractures, neck and back pain and facial lacerations.

The driver crawled out of his badly damaged cab and was treated at the scene by paramedics before being airlifted to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham for further assessment.

“The M6 Toll northbound was closed as a result of the incident.”

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Sunday 7^th April 2013 – 8.30pm – Suzie Fothergill.  

A motorcyclist has been taken to hospital following an incident in Staffordshire this morning.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to a road traffic collision at the junction of the A500 and Shelton New Road in Stoke on Trent shortly after 11.10am this morning.

An ambulance and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford, carrying a critical care paramedic and a trauma doctor, were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Services spokeswoman said: “On arrival at the scene crews found a motorcyclist that had been in collision with a lamp-post.

“The motorcyclist, a man in his 40’s, was treated for significant leg and arm injuries. The man was given pain relief at the scene and fully immobilised before being conveyed, via land ambulance, to University Hospital of North Staffordshire for further assessment and treatment.

“The doctor from the aircraft travelled on board the land ambulance continuing to provide emergency medical treatment whilst on en-route to hospital.”

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Sunday 7^th April 2013 – 10.00am – Suzie Fothergill.  

A man has been taken to hospital following a road traffic collision involving two cars and a motorcyclist in Staffordshire last night.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the incident near to the junction of King Street and Clarence Road in Fenton, Stoke on Trent shortly before 9.40pm yesterday.

Two ambulances and a paramedic area support officer were dispatched to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “On arrival at the scene crews found a motorcyclist who had suffered serious multiple injuries.

“The man was treated for a serious chest injury and multiple fractures to his leg, pelvis and collarbone. He was fully immobilised and conveyed to the major trauma centre at University Hospital of North Staffordshire for further assessment and specialist treatment.

“The hospital was pre-alerted to the arrival of the man and of his injuries.

“Two other people from the cars were assessed and treated for minor injuries at the scene.”

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Saturday 6^th April 2013 – 11.00pm – Suzie Fothergill.  

Two people have been taken to hospital following a road traffic collision in Wolverhampton today.

A passing West Midlands Ambulance Service crew came across the incident at the junction of Cannock Road and Stafford Street in Wolverhampton at approximately 8.45pm this evening.

A further ambulance, a rapid response vehicle, a paramedic area support officer and the 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 found a motorcyclist and a pedestrian that had been in collision.

“The pedestrian, a man in his mid-20’s, was treated for a head injury and injuries to his lower limbs. The man was fully immobilised and conveyed to the major trauma centre at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham. A medic from MERIT travelled on board the ambulance continuing to provide emergency medical treatment whilst en route to the hospital.

“The motorcyclist, a man believed to be in his 30’s, was treated for a back injury before being conveyed to New Cross Hospital for further assessment and treatment.”

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Saturday 6^th April 2013 – 9.00pm – Suzie Fothergill.  

West Midlands Ambulance Service has attended to a spate of motorcycle incidents throughout the region today.

• Shortly after 12.55pm this afternoon West Midlands Ambulance Service received a call to the junction of Atherstone Street and Brook End in Fazeley, Tamworth. An ambulance, a rapid response vehicle and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Staffordshire were dispatched to the scene.

On arrival at the scene crews found a car and a motorcycle that had been in collision. The motorcyclist, a man believed to be in his 40’s, was treated for a leg and a potential pelvic injury. The man was immobilised and airlifted to Queen Elizabeth Birmingham for further assessment and treatment.

• At approximately 1.25pm this afternoon the Trust was called to reports of a pushbike and a scooter that had been in collision at Wrekin View in Madeley, Telford. An ambulance, a senior ambulance officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford were sent to the scene.

A nine year old boy was treated by crews for a head injury and multiple abrasions to his body before being airlifted to University Hospital of North Staffordshire.

• Just after 1.30pm crews were again called to an incident involving a motorcyclist and a pushbike on Coton Road in Nuneaton. Two ambulances, a paramedic area support officer, the Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham, two BASICS doctors and the Trust MERIT rapid response vehicle, carrying a critical care paramedic and a trauma doctor were in attendance at the scene.

The cyclist was treated for multiple injuries. Due to the serious nature of his injuries the man was given at anaesthetic at the scene before being conveyed, via land ambulance, to University Hospital of Coventry and Warwickshire. A medic travelled on board the ambulance continuing to provide emergency medical treatment whilst on route to hospital.

The motorcyclist, a man, was also treated for multiple injuries before being immobilised using a neck collar and spinal board. The motorcyclist was also conveyed via land ambulance to the same hospital for further assessment and treatment. 

• At approximately 3.35pm the Midlands Air Ambulance from Staffordshire, an ambulance and a community first responder attended to an incident involving a car and a motorcyclist near to Whitacre Garden Centre on Tamworth Road in Coleshill, Birmingham.

The motorcyclist, a man, was treated for serious multiple injuries. The man was fully immobilised and airlifted to University Hospital of Coventry and Warwickshire.

• Shortly after 5.15pm crews were called Holyhead Road, Priorslee, Telford to reports of a motorcyclist that had been in collision with a bollard. An ambulance and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford were dispatched to the scene.

The motorcyclist, a man, was treated for a potential pelvic fracture. The man was given pain relief at the scene and fully immobilised before being airlifted to University Hospital of North Staffordshire.

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Friday 5^th April 2013 – 8.40pm – Suzie Fothergill.  

A teenage boy has been airlifted to hospital following an incident in Wolverhampton today.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to a road traffic collision at the junction of Lawnswood Avenue and Birmingham New Road in Ettingshall shortly after 5pm this evening.

Two ambulances, a rapid response vehicle, the Midlands Air Ambulance from Staffordshire and the West Midlands Care Team, consisting of a doctor, an immediate care nurse and a paramedic ambulance officer were dispatched to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “On arrival at the scene crews found a pedestrian and a car that had been in collision.

“The pedestrian, a boy believed to be approximately 14 years of age, was treated for a head injury, a significant left leg injury, a potential right leg injury and a fractured arm.

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

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Friday 5^th April 2013 – 8.30am – Suzie Fothergill.  

Two people have been taken to hospital following a road traffic collision in the Black Country last night.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the incident which took place on a roundabout at the junction of Shrubbery Avenue, Bell Street and Dudley Road in Tipton shortly after 7.10pm last night.

One ambulance, a paramedic area support officer and the 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: “On arrival at the scene crews found two cars that had been in collision.

“The driver and front seat passenger from one of the vehicles were reported to have been ejected from the car. The driver, a 20-year-old man, was found lying on the floor in the middle of the roundabout. The man was treated for a head injury and fully immobilised before being conveyed to Russells Hall Hospital for further assessment and treatment.

“The front seat passenger, a 19-year-old woman was treated for minor injuries and was conveyed to the same hospital for further assessment.

“No one else was injured in this incident.”

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Thursday 4^th April 2013 – 8.30am – Suzie Fothergill.  

A boy has died and another has been injured following an incident in Warwickshire yesterday afternoon.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to reports of a road traffic collision in Parkfield Road in Rugby shortly before 4.35pm yesterday.

An ambulance, two rapid response vehicles, a paramedic area support officer, a senior ambulance officer, the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance and a BASICS Doctor were dispatched to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “On arrival at the scene crews found a boy lying in the road. The boy who had suffered serious injuries was immediately assessed and was found to be in traumatic cardiac arrest. Full resuscitation techniques were carried out at the scene but unfortunately despite best efforts of ambulance crews nothing could be done to save the boy and he was confirmed deceased at the scene.

“A second boy found in a van was treated for facial injuries. The boy was fully immobilised before being conveyed to University Hospital of Coventry and Warwickshire, via land ambulance, for further assessment and treatment.”

Ends

Notes to editors

I have no more details on this incident for more information please contact Warwickshire Police.

Tuesday 2^nd April 2013 – 6.30am – Suzie Fothergill.  

Two people have been taken to hospital following a road traffic collision in Tamworth last night.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the incident on Coventry Road in Kingsbury at approximately 8.35pm yesterday.

Three ambulances, a rapid response car, a paramedic area support officer, a BASICS Doctor and the West Midlands CARE Team were dispatched to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “On arrival at the scene crews found two cars that had been in collision.

“The driver of the first car, a man in his 20’s, was treated for minor injuries and discharged at the scene.

“Two men in their 30’s were found to be trapped in the second vehicle. The men were extricated from the vehicle with the assistance of the fire service. The driver was treated for multiple fractures to his pelvis and leg whilst the passenger was treated for leg fractures. Both men were fully immobilised and conveyed to University Hospital of Coventry and Warwickshire for further assessment and treatment.

“The hospital was pre-alerted to the arrival of the men and of their injuries.”

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Sunday 31st March 2013 – 2.05pm – Chris Kowalik.

A woman has been flown to hospital following a collision with a car in Shrewsbury.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the Cathedral Town Walls shortly before 10.30am today.

Two ambulance crews, a senior paramedic officer in a rapid response vehicle and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford attended.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “The woman, who is in her eighties had abrasions to her head, a suspected fractured pelvis, a suspected broken leg and a suspected abdominal injury.

“Drugs and pain relief were administered. She was sedated, anaesthetised at the scene and her airway maintained.

“She was flown to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham.”

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Saturday 30th March 2013 – 9pm – Chris Kowalik.

A woman has died and four other people have been taken to hospital following a road traffic collision in Shropshire.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the A5 at Montford Bridge shortly after 5pm today.

A paramedic area support officer in a rapid response vehicle, a senior paramedic officer in a rapid response vehicle, the MERIT team of a trauma doctor and critical care practitioner in a rapid response vehicle, four ambulances and the Midlands Air Ambulances from Cosford and Staffordshire attended.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Two vehicles had been involved in a collision.

“In one of the vehicles was a woman who was confirmed dead at the scene. A man in his seventies had been trapped for approximately 40 minutes. He had a chest injury and numerous fractures. He was given oxygen at the scene and was fully immobilised before being flown to the University Hospital of North Staffordshire. A 9 year old girl who was in the same vehicle, was flown to the same hospital with an abdominal injury.

“In the second vehicle was a pregnant woman who was taken by land ambulance to Royal Shrewsbury Hospital. A six year old boy was taken by land ambulance to Princess Royal Hospital with facial injuries.”

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Saturday 30th March 2013 – 12.40pm – Chris Kowalik.

A pedestrian has been airlifted to a major trauma centre following a collision with a lorry in Worcestershire.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Bromyard Road, Knightwick shortly after 10.50am today.

A community paramedic in a rapid response vehicle, a paramedic area support officer in a rapid response vehicle, the MERIT team of a trauma doctor and a critical care practitioner, an ambulance crew and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham attended. A GP who was in the area at the time had already stopped to help.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “The man who is in his late teens had a head injury. He was anaesthetised at the scene and his airway maintained. Drugs were administered and he was immobilised with the use of a scoop stretcher. A neck collar and SAM splint were applied and, accompanied in the helicopter by the trauma doctor, he was flown to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham.”

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Saturday 30th March 2013 – 12.10pm – Chris Kowalik.

A motorcyclist has died following a collision with a car in Worcestershire.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Boraston Drive, Tenbury shortly after 10.05pm last night (Friday)

A community paramedic in a rapid response vehicle, a senior paramedic officer in a rapid response vehicle, the West Midlands CARE team and an ambulance crew attended.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “The motorcyclist had numerous injuries. Crews administered advanced life support techniques at the scene and en-route to the major trauma centre at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham.

“Despite the best efforts of ambulance and hospital staff, he was later confirmed dead at hospital.”

Ends

Note to Editors:
The West Midlands Central Accident Resuscitation & Emergency (CARE) team is a group of approx. 60 volunteer Doctors and Nurses who provide a medical team in support of the West Midlands Ambulance Service. Each team consists of a Doctor, Nurse, WMAS Incident Officer and a Trainee. The team is able to offer advanced surgical intervention, airway and equipment support. The CARE Team was formed in 1990 and is affiliated with the British Association for Immediate Care (BASICS). The Scheme is funded entirely by charitable donations and is a registered charity number 1129027.

Friday 29th March 2013 – 7.25pm – Chris Kowalik.

A man has been airlifted to hospital after falling approx.. 25 metres from the top of a rockface in Herefordshire.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Symonds Yat shortly after 2.45pm today.

A paramedic area support officer in a rapid response vehicle, an ambulance crew and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham attended.

Emergency services from Gloucestershire also attended.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “The man, who is in his twenties was out rockclimbing with friends. It was fortunate that his fall had been broken by some bracken. He was found half-way up the rock face. Then followed a rescue lasting approximately three hours.

“All emergency and rescue services worked together to get him to the bottom of the rockface. He was then carried to the waiting land ambulance which transported him to the air ambulance to be flown to Hereford County Hospital.

“He had a broken leg and lower back pain. The hospital was put on alert for his arrival.”

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Thursday 28th March 2013 – 5.00pm – Steve Parry

With the wintry weather conditions likely to persist over the Easter bank holiday, there are fears that demand on the emergency ambulance service could exceed predictions with calls rising to between 10 and 15 per cent above normal.

Ambulance crews will deal with a range of emergency incidents over the four days and the Trust has mobilised additional staff to staff ambulances and response cars so that the anticipated rise in 999 calls can be dealt with safely.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesperson said: “The Easter holiday always proves to be a busy time for the ambulance service with the public taking the opportunity to enjoy the first holiday break of the year.

“We anticipate 999 calls to rise and therefore we would ask the public to continue to take extra care in the wintry conditions.

“We would also ask the public to think carefully before calling 999 for an emergency ambulance, thereby allowing us to attend to patients’ suffering life threatening illness and injury.”

During the bank holiday period, the ambulance service will be working alongside other agencies to ensure patients receive the appropriate care and treatment. In cases where illness and injury is not life threatening, it may be appropriate to consider alternatives to calling 999 such as NHS Direct, Walk-in Centres or local pharmacists.

Notes to Editor
1. Examples of 999 calls that could have been dealt with elsewhere: ear pain, toothache, stubbed toe, broken finger nail, sore throat and hangover.

2. Other healthcare services available include:
• Self care – A range of common illnesses and injuries can be treated at home by combining a well-stocked medicine cabinet with plenty of rest.
• NHS Direct – NHS Direct provides confidential health advice and information by phone (0845 46 47), through digital TV and online (www.nhs.uk), 24 hours a day.
• Pharmacist – Your local pharmacist can give you advice on illnesses and the medicines you need to treat them. Visit a pharmacist when you are suffering from a common health problem which does not require being seen by a nurse or doctor.
• GP – GP surgeries provide a range of services by appointment, including medical advice, examinations, and prescriptions. In an emergency, a GP can also visit your home outside of opening hours by contacting your local surgery and following the recorded instructions.
• NHS walk-in centre, urgent care centre, or minor injuries unit – You do not need an appointment and you will be seen by an experienced nurse or GP. These services give healthcare and advice and most are open from early in the morning until late at night. Visit one of these centres if you need medical treatment or advice which does not need a visit to A&E or a medical appointment.

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Wednesday 27th March 2013 – 11.30pm – Chris Kowalik.

A man has been seriously injured in a collision with a lorry in south Shropshire.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the A49 at Ludford shortly after 7.50pm today.

A community paramedic in a rapid response vehicle, a senior paramedic officer in a rapid response vehicle, an ambulance crew, a BASICS Emergency Doctor from MARS (Mercia Accident Rescue Service) and the MERIT team of a trauma doctor and a critical care practitioner attended.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “A pedestrian had collided with a lorry. He had a head injury and a suspected pelvic injury.

“He was anaesthetised at the scene and his airway maintained. A pelvic splint was applied and he was fully immobilised before being taken by land ambulance, accompanied by the MERIT trauma team to the University Hospital of North Staffordshire.”

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Mercia Accident Rescue Service (MARS) is a group of highly trained and experienced pre-hospital practitioners who provide enhanced immediate medical care to the people of Herefordshire and Worcestershire on a voluntary basis in support of West Midlands Ambulance Service. It currently comprises 15 doctors and two advanced nurse practitioners. The scheme is a registered charity supported by local fundraising and affiliated with the British Association for Immediate Care (BASICS). For more information go to http://www.marsbasics.org.uk.

Tuesday 26^th March 2013 – 4.45pm – Chris Kowalik.

Four new Heartstart instructors have recently completed their training to enable them to deliver two-hour courses in Herefordshire on lifesaving techniques.

Herefordshire Heartstart is a charity supported by West Midlands Ambulance Service that is training thousands of people aged 10 or over in the county lifesaving techniques including CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation), the management of severe bleeding, loss of consciousness, choking and chest pain.

The new instructors joined the team last year and have been helping at courses to give them more experience of how they are delivered. The volunteers then attended an instructor training course and are now approved to deliver Heartstart training.

They will now be instructing as part of a team of volunteers, who regularly deliver courses all over Herefordshire on how to save a life.

Herefordshire Heartstart runs courses for the public, for groups and businesses. The courses are free, but the charity relies on financial donations to keep the service running. Herefordshire Heartstart is affiliated to the British Heart Foundation, but does not receive funding for the community scheme to deliver this locally.

For details of volunteering opportunities or booking a course email the Co-ordinator Loraine Coleman at info@herefordshireheartstart.co.uk or Tel 0845 60 60 654 (Mon to Thurs 9am to 12.45pm. Please note that the office will be closed from 29th March to 16th April) or visit www.herefordshireheartstart.org

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A ‘999’ call for an ambulance in Shropshire could result in a visit from a Shropdoc General Practitioner.

Around 25 GPs from Shropdoc are providing support to West Midlands Ambulance Service 4 days a week (Monday to Friday) until July 2013.

The GPs will receive requests to assess patients who do not require a trip to A&E from paramedics in the community or in the Control Centre in Brierley Hill.

The aim of the scheme is to provide high quality care closer to the patient’s home. This will help reduce the number of inappropriate admissions to hospital and unnecessary visits to the A&E departments.

Shropshire County and Telford & Wrekin Clinical Commissioning Groups are supporting the scheme by providing funding for the next 4 months.

The scheme went live with its first shift on Monday 18th March. Dr. Edwin O’Bazee (pictured) was the duty GP on shift on Friday 22nd March. He said: “I was keen to practice in primary care, dealing with patients out in the community rather than in a surgery.”

Simon Taylor, West Midlands Ambulance Service’s Clinical Practice and Governance Manager for Shropshire said: “Working together with Shropdoc will bring many great improvements to the speed and quality of the care and treatments we can bring to our patients. Our ambulance crews can call on the duty GP to administer antibiotics, muscle relaxants and analgesia for example. The GPs can also quickly refer patients to other areas of the health service to ensure more of them get the right care in the right place at the right time, first time.”

Dr. Gill Clements, Medical Director of Shropdoc, said: “We are delighted to be offered the opportunity to work more closely with West Midlands paramedics to ensure that patients receive the most appropriate care in their homes or community wherever possible and safe to do so.”

Dr. Bill Gowans, Shropshire Clinical Commissioning Group’s Vice Chairman, said: “As local GPs we know that some patients who call 999 do not need to be taken to hospital. We have worked closely with Shropdoc, who have led this pilot, to ensure patients who do not need A&E services can access GP clinical advice. Not only will this save patients an unnecessary journey but it will also hopefully reduce demand on A&E and free up ambulances. We know locally there have been concerns raised about the ambulance response times and this is one way we are working with West Midlands Ambulance Service to look at demand and ensure patients have access to the right treatment at the right time.”

Dr Mike Innes, Chair of Telford and Wrekin Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “Not all calls to 999 need to result in a visit to A&E, wherever possible we are committed to ensuring patients can be treated closer to home. However, we know that for some non life threatening conditions paramedics need access to GP advice and support. All NHS services need to work together, to help reduce demand on NHS services and this is a good example of clinicians working together to ensure patients get access to the best possible care.”

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Four paramedics based in the Black Country are to take on an endurance challenge; hiking 30 miles across Exmoor carrying a 30lbs weight in under 12 hours.

Mark Gibbs, Michael Howe and Sarah Postles (all based in Willenhall), Rebecca Price (based in Dudley) and Mark Gibbs’ brother Mat will compete in the Exmoor 30:30 challenge on September 14^th.

They are raising money for The Royal British Legion and aim to raise £2,500. To sponsor them, visit www.justgiving.com/mambonumber5

Monday 25^th March 2013 – 5.30pm – Suzie Fothergill.  

As the snow fell heavily across Staffordshire and the West Midlands Region this weekend there was no stopping Flash and Longnor Community First Responders (CFRs*) from getting to members of the community that needed their help.

When the weather over Staffordshire Moorlands began to deteriorate and roads became virtually impassable the Flash and Longnor CFRs found themselves being unable to respond in their normal 4×4. Undeterred by the horrendous weather conditions the responders decided to utilise another resource that was available to them; Farmer and CFR Darren Barlow’s tractor!

Darren said: “Moorland villagers found themselves in a late grip of winter with the onslaught of snow and strong winds over the weekend making virtually all roads impassable even with some of the best 4X4 vehicles. Having a tractor at our disposal enabled us to reach a number of medical emergencies as quickly and safely as possible.”

Matt Heward, Community Response Manager for West Midlands Ambulance Service said: “The wintry weather meant that emergency service vehicles faced some treacherous road conditions. In some remote rural areas that had been hit heavily with snow, ambulances were unable to reach patients as quickly as usually possible.

“Thanks to Flash and Longnor’s quick thinking they were able to reach a number of people suffering from medical emergencies as quickly as possible, whilst ambulance resources battled their way through to back them up.

“In many illnesses or injuries simple interventions can be performed in order to save lives or prevent disability so getting someone there as quickly as possible is critical.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the CFRs and voluntary organisations across the region who helped to support the ambulance service during this recent heavy snow fall.”

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*CFRs are groups of volunteers that respond to emergencies on behalf of West Midlands Ambulance Service, prior to the arrival of an ambulance. CFRs help reach those people, suffering from medical emergencies, in the remote rural communities fast.

CFR are trained by the Ambulance Service to a nationally recognised level and maybe requested to attend to medical emergencies such as cardiac arrest, chest pain, bleeds, diabetic emergencies, strokes and breathing problems.

Pictured: Adam Rowbottom and Darren Barlow Flash and Longnor Community First Responders.

Monday 24th March 2013 – 5.30am – Steve Parry.

A man has died in a road traffic collision in Alcester yesterday evening (Sunday).

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the A441 Evesham Road, Cookhill at around 5.30pm.

An ambulance, a paramedic in a rapid response car; a paramedic officer together with the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance and Midlands Air Ambulance aircrew in a rapid response car from Strensham, attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews arrived to find a single vehicle involved in a collision with a tree.

“Despite the efforts of police officers and ambulance crews at the scene, it quickly became apparent that nothing could be done to save the patient and he was confirmed dead at the scene.”

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Sunday 24th March 2013 – 7am – Steve Parry.

Two people have been taken to hospital following a road traffic collision in Sheldon, Birmingham this morning.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the junction of Coventry Road and Barrows Lane in Sheldon just after 2.30am.

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

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Ambulance crews responded to a road traffic collision involving a car and lamppost.  

“Two men travelling in the car were trapped in their vehicle.

“A front seat passenger, a man believed to be in his twenties, received serious head and chest injuries. The unconscious patient was rapidly extricated from the vehicle by ambulance staff and taken to Queen Elizabeth Hospital.

“The driver of the car, a man in his twenties, was treated for a minor back injury and taken to Heartlands Hospital.” 

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Sunday 24th March 2013 – 6.45am – Steve Parry.   

Five people have been taken to hospital following a road traffic collision in Walsall overnight.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Ablewell Street, Walsall just after 2am.

Two ambulances; a paramedic in a rapid response vehicle; a paramedic officer, and a doctor from the Medical Emergency Response Incident Team (MERIT) were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Ambulance crews responded to a road traffic collision following reports that a taxi had collided with a lamppost.  

“Five men, in their late teens and early twenties, travelling in the back of the taxi were treated at the scene by ambulance staff.

“Three men received minor cuts and abrasions. One patient suffered an arm injury and a further male was complaining of neck pain.

“All the patients were taken to Walsall Manor Hospital.

“The driver of the taxi was assessed at the scene but did not require hospital treatment.”

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Saturday 23rd March 2013 – 6.30am – Steve Parry.

An elderly woman has been taken to hospital following a fire at a residential tower block in Birmingham yesterday evening (Friday).   

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Clydesdale Tower, Holloway Head at approximately 9.40pm.

An ambulance, together with a paramedic officer and the Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews arrives to find smoke rising from the fourth to the tenth floor.

“Working with firefighters at the scene, Crews quickly determined that no occupants were in the residence where the fire originally started. However, a neighbour in her late seventies was treated for smoke inhalation.

“She was taken to the City Hospital for further treatment and assessment.”

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Friday 22nd March 2013 – 6.15pm – Steve Parry.

A woman has been taken to hospital after reportedly jumping from a 1^st floor window of a house to escape a fire in Birmingham this afternoon.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Bangham Pit Road in Northfield at around 3.30pm (Friday). An ambulance crew and a responder paramedic were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “A woman, believed to be 25 years old, had reportedly jumped from a 1^st floor window to escape the house fire and had landed on concrete.

“Crews immediately began to assess her. The woman had severe back pain and was suffering from smoke inhalation. Crews administered pain relief and oxygen therapy before she was immobilised fully with a neck collar and spinal board.

“Once stabilised, the woman was taken by land ambulance on blue lights to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham.”

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