Newquay man who had epileptic fit thanks Streetsafe police first aid volunteers

A NEWQUAY man who had an epileptic fit during New Year's Eve celebrations in the resort has praised police first aid volunteers who "kept him safe".

The Newquay Streetsafe team were scrambled to a man who had suffered an epileptic seizure in Central Square at around 11.30pm.

The first aid unit – made up of one special constable and two police volunteers – acted "swiftly" giving initial first aid to Jon Goodman – who was also thought to have suffered a head injury – and looked after him until he regained consciousness.

Mr Goodman, 43, said: "All the guys on Streetsafe were an amazing help to me when I had an epileptic seizure on New Year's Eve. My wife tells me that they never left my side, even as it poured with rain.

BOGOF meal deal

Golden Lion Inn & Restaurant Stithians Lake

View details

Print voucher

Buy one get one free on all main courses and specials

Terms: Thur 6-9pm & Friday 12-2pm

Contact: 01209 700617

Valid until: Friday, May 24 2013

"They showed that they are an asset to the town and emergency services, they acted swiftly, professionally and ensured I was safe throughout the event, and my family cannot thank them enough for what they selflessly did to help me."

The team, operated by Devon and Cornwall Police volunteers, was called to the incident by police.

During the shift, which ran from 8.30pm to 4am, the trio dealt with nine incidents ranging from one woman with a suspected broken ankle to several drink-related incidents. They also gave assistance and advice as well as taking drunk people home.

Police volunteer Sam Biggs said the shift was a "huge benefit" to the police and ambulance service.

"Being on duty in the town meant that over the course of the evening only one ambulance was requested to assist Streetsafe and the patient left of their own accord after a quick check-up," he said.

"It was a worthwhile debut for Streetsafe over New Year's Eve, and we would hope that we can be used next year, expanding the remit outside the summer."

Newquay Inspector Dave Meredith said that although Streetsafe has traditionally been used during the summer, he specifically requested the team's assistance on New Year's Eve to ensure officers were free to deal with crime and antisocial behaviour.

"The performance of Streetsafe was truly impressive. They were a credit to their team," he said, adding that he intended to use them next New Year's Eve too.