Classic crash kills two
Ford Model A and ambulance collide
Police in Herefordshire have launched an investigation after two classic fans were killed in an accident on the way to a Bank Holiday weekend show.
CCW understands that Jason Allen and friend, Andrew Ralph, were travelling in a Ford Model A when they were involved in a collision with an ambulance on the A49 in Peterstow, near Ross-on-Wye.
The two friends, who were both drivers for the Herefordshire-based haulage company ABE (Ledbury) Ltd, were travelling to the Shrewsbury Steam Rally when the collision took place at 6.11am on Sunday, 25 August. The organiser of the event, held at Onslow Park, had not responded to requests for comment before this week’s issue went to press.
The friends’ employer said: ‘It is with great sadness that we share the shocking news that two of our long-serving drivers, Andrew Ralph – whom many will know as Rabbit – and Jason Allen, died together in a tragic car accident.
‘We consider ourselves fortunate to have worked alongside them. We are devastated.
‘Our thoughts are with their families and friends at this terrible time.’
Sergeant Dan Poucher of West Mercia Police said that an inquiry was underway and urged witnesses or people with dashcam footage to get in touch with investigating officers.
He said: ‘Next of kin have been informed and our thoughts are with the families of those affected.’
West Midlands Ambulance Service (WMAS) confirmed that two of its staff received treatment for injuries that were not believed to be serious, and that the ambulance was not responding to a 999 call at the time.
A WMAS spokeswoman told Classic Car Weekly: ‘Two ambulance staff received treatment by ambulance colleagues on scene for injuries not believed to be serious before being taken to Hereford County Hospital for further assessment.
‘ The trust will work closely with Officers from West Mercia Police on the investigation which is already underway.’ ❚ West Mercia Police, 101
‘ We were fortunate to have worked with them. We are devastated’