Air ambulance crew called to scene of Lucton tragedy earn 999 award (From Ledbury Reporter)

Air ambulance crew called to the crash that killed Kate and Sam Boughton earn 999 award

6:00pm Wednesday 9th January 2013 in News

THE air ambulance crews who helped save the lives of two boys from a road crash which killed their mother and brother have received a prestigious award.

Midlands Air Ambulance were recognised at the industry’s top awards, the Ambulance Service Institute annual awards ceremony, for their response to a fatal crash in Lucton, near Leominster, which claimed the lives of mother and son Kate and Sam Boughton on Valentine’s Day last year.

The paramedic who was first on scene had the horrific task of assessing Kate, Sam and his critically injured brothers who were trapped inside a Vauxhall Corsa.

As details of the incident and their injuries started to filter through, all three Midlands Air Ambulance helicopters were dispatched to the scene along with ambulances and a BASICS doctor.

Tragically 14-year-old Sam was pronouced dead at the scene. Kate died shortly after being airlifted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham.

Sam’s brothers Thomas and Louis survived after being airlifted to Birmingham Children’s Hospital.

Dr Nick Crombie, one of the doctors on board an air ambulance called the scene that day, said: “To be faced with four critically injured patients has to be the worst nightmare for any member of the ambulance service.

“The initial response from the land crews is what makes it possible for us to make best use of the helicopters.

“I would also pay tribute to Dr Malcolm Russell who also helped at the scene and flew with one of the critically injured children.

“I am incredibly proud of all of the crews and pilots who worked that day.

“We are also very lucky to have the support of the public who raise a phenomenal amount of money each year that allows us to keep flying.

“Without their generosity, it wouldn’t be possible.

“Out of this tragedy came some hope.

“The fact that we were able to save two of the children has, I know, helped the family to cope with devastation of losing two of their loved ones."

Above: Mum and son Kate and Sam Boughton

The Midlands Air Ambulance crews picked up their Air Ambulance Team Award during a ceremony at the House of Lords.

Speaking afterwards, Midlands Air Ambulance Charity chief executive Hanna Sebright said: “We are very proud of all of the crews involved.

“This incident demonstrates the absolute necessity for an air ambulance service in major trauma situations.

“It also highlights how well the crews of the aircraft work with the staff of West Midlands Ambulance Service.”