Cumbria’s crime commissioner and the county’s chief constable have lent their support to the campaign to save Alston’s dedicated ambulance service.
Peter McCall, police and crime commissioner, said: “Having discussed this matter with the constabulary, I would agree that the retention of the ambulance and the emergency medical technicians who staff it in Alston is essential due to the remoteness of the area.
“Alston is indeed in my view a vulnerable community; this is exacerbated exponentially in winter when road access can be at best difficult but often impossible.
“It is in this context that as police and crime commissioner, I have ensured that Alston town has a dedicated police officer supported by a local PCSO.
“Additionally, there is a dedicated officer for the wider rural areas of Alston.
“I understand the concern of residents, who wish to improve and retain ambulance and EMT cover, having the capability locally provides an immediate response for a medical emergency whilst affording reassurance and comfort to residents and the wider community.
“I am happy to support the campaign for the Alston Moor ambulance, and staff to remain.”
Chief Constable Michelle Skeer backed this view, describing Alston as occupying a “unique position” in the geography of Cumbria.
The North West Ambulance Service says due to national changes regarding the skill level and training legally required for emergency medical technicians, it had had no choice but to modify the operational model for the Alston area.
