Borders MSP calling for tougher action against thugs responsible for attacks on 999 crews

That call was prompted by figures revealing that ambulance crews are not allowed to enter 33 addresses in the TD postcode area without a police escort due to fears for their safety.

Such addresses are classed as red-flagged, meaning that paramedics can only go in to respond to a 999 call if there is at least one police officer present to help protect them.

That stark statistic was released to the Scottish Conservatives in response to a freedom-of -information request to the Scottish Ambulance Service.

More than 2,500 addresses in total are deemed unsafe, the highest numbers being in Glasgow, with 820, and Edinburgh, on 469.

Mrs Hamilton, MSP for Ettrick, Roxburgh and Berwickshire, said: “Paramedics already have to put up with a lot during their working hours when they have to respond to people with devastating injuries or even worse.

“It is sickening that there are so many Borders addresses that are deemed too unsafe to attend without police protection.

“It has always baffled me as to why people attack those who are trying to help.

“I want to see tougher action from the courts when people have assaulted or threatened paramedics, or indeed any member of the emergency services.

“Like us all, they should be able to attend their place of work without fear.”