Emergency services welcome His Majesty to Southport

Published: 21st August 2024

Emergency responders in Southport welcomed His Majesty, King Charles, to Southport Fire and Ambulance Station yesterday following the tragic event which took place in the town on 29th July.

King Charles visited the town to meet survivors of the incident and their families, before greeting representatives from fire, police, ambulance and air ambulance services; alongside members of the community who rallied together in the aftermath.

All of the emergency services staff present were involved in the incident in a wide range of roles, including those who answered the original 999 calls, treated and transported victims and the subsequent police response and investigation.

Incidents of this type are thankfully rare, but the impact on everyone involved can be difficult and so the appreciation shown by The King during his visit was gratefully received by all.

One of our Critical Care Paramedics, Caroline, was one of the first responders on the scene and was invited to meet His Majesty as a representative for all the Air Ambulance charities that attended the incident.

a group of people stood together, two are in dark green outfits, one is in a red suit and the other is in a grey suit - His Majesty meeting emergency responders

Heather Arrowsmith, CEO of North West Air Ambulance Charity said: “It was a great honour for our Critical Care Paramedic Caroline to meet His Majesty, alongside the other emergency services who worked so hard to care for the critically injured patients at the incident.

“Two of our helicopters were dispatched to the scene and along with support from other air ambulances, provided enhanced pre-hospital care to those who were injured and transported patients by air to trauma centres throughout the North West.

“Our thoughts continue to be with all those impacted by this tragic event and our heartfelt condolences go to those who lost young members of their family. At this time, we’d especially like to thank everyone for their continued support. Our missions are only possible thanks to your donations. With you as part of our crew, we can continue to bring the hospital to the patient.”