INJURED CYCLIST’S PRAISE FOR QUICK-THINKING COUNCIL WORKER
A cyclist who suffered serious injuries after crashing his bike has thanked the Sunderland City Council worker who came to his aid.
Allan Card, 69, was riding near his home in Fatfield when he was involved in an accident.
He said: "I don’t know what happened.
“I must have only been out for five or 10 minutes when I was thrown from my bike.
“The next thing I remember is people around me and realising that I was hurt.”
Council building officer Michael Lee spotted passers-by Steven Ward and another man called Danny struggling to help Allan in the road.
"I have had some first aid training, so I was able to help, and we were able to stay with him until his wife Lesley and the ambulance arrived,” he said.
Steven, who lives in Fatfield, said: “When I found Allan he was lying on the wrong side of the road just after a blind turn.
“Michael stopped his van to shield my car and help me.
“He made a bed using his decorating sheets and did a truly amazing job of administering first aid.”
Steven added: "I cannot commend his action and bravery enough, especially given that some members of the public would not even walk past us for fear of coronavirus."
Allan’s wife, Lesley Card, said: "I hate to think what would have happened if these amazing strangers had not been so selfless.
“It really does restore your faith in human nature."
Allan is now recovering at home after two days in hospital.
He has a fractured hip and bad scrapes, as well as the injury to his eye and other cuts and bruises, following his ordeal on May 28.
He said: "It may not be possible at the moment but when lockdown is over I hope I can shake Michael’s hand.
“I can’t thank him enough for his help.”
Michael added: "I would like to thank Steven and Danny who contacted the ambulance service with accident details. “We worked together. "Overall, I am just happy to hear that Allan is okay and starting to feel better.
“I want to wish him the best and hope he makes a quick recovery."