Injured mountain biker thanks Midlothian ambulance crew who came to his aid

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David Turpin, of Gateshead, was visiting Scotland and out cycling on the Glentress Mountain Bike Trail near Peebles, on August 13 when he came off his bike.

Immediately after the accident, the 47-year-old could not move – sustaining five fractured ribs and puncturing a lung.

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David spent five days in Edinburgh Royal Infirmary before returning south of the border, where he continues his recovery.

The 47-year-old wanted to thank Rhona Clement and Mary Griffin, both technicians at Penicuik Ambulance Station, alongside the SAS Helimed air ambulance, and say sorry for swearing while he was in agony.

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David,said: “I want to pass on my heartfelt thanks to the SAS staff for rescuing me. I had come off my mountain bike, damaging my back and could not move.

“I broke five ribs, one of them in three places and I punctured a lung. I spent five days in hospital in lots of pain but I am now back in Gateshead at home recovering.

“If it had not been for the Scottish Ambulance Service, and the many kind members of the public, I do not know what I would have done.

“I possibly would have tried to move and caused further damage. The service and all staff are fantastic and so reassuring. I also apologise for swearing in the ambulance.

“Thank you so much for everything. There are so many people to thank and it is difficult to know where to start.”

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