A GOOD Samaritan has hit out at the ambulance service after paramedics were twice diverted from coming to the aid of an 83-year-old who collapsed in the street.

Brian Roberts spotted the pensioner collapsing in High Street, Clacton.
The elderly shopper suffered head injuries and was left unconscious following the fall.

“I was able to offer some basic first aid to this gentleman along with three public-spirited ladies and one traffic warden,” said Mr Roberts, of Fieldgate Dock, Brightlingsea.

“We immediately phoned 999 for an ambulance, but one hour and 15 minutes elapsed while we all became increasingly concerned about the elderly gentleman’s condition.

“In view of our concerns regarding his apparently deteriorating condition, one of the lady helpers decided to drive the gentleman the short distance to Clacton Hospital."

Mr Roberts said the incident happened at about 12.45pm on November 23.

A spokesman for the East of England Ambulance Service said they were called at 1.49pm to a man who had fallen and suffered facial injuries.

“He was conscious and breathing throughout,” he said.

“We had a paramedic in a response car on its way twice, which had to be diverted both times to more serious calls.

“At 2.39pm he was off the floor and a member of the public reported that they were taking the man to hospital.”