RAF veteran stranded alone for Christmas after lift breaks
THE family of a centenarian have spoken of their anger after the lift in his retirement block broke, leaving him stranded for Christmas and the new year.
Frank Proctor, a Second World War RAF veteran, celebrated turning 102 yesterday. He had hoped to spend the festive period at his flat surrounded by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
However, the “obsolete” lift in the over-55s block in which he lives in Southampton, Hants, broke down three days before Christmas Day.
Ten days later it has yet to be fixed, and Mr Procter’s family decided to take matters into their own hands by carrying him down the stairs in his wheelchair so he can celebrate his birthday in a nearby pub.
Since the lift broke down, other residents have complained about being “trapped” in the building.
People with mobility issues said they feel like prisoners and family members have had to turn to “dangerous” methods to allow their relatives to get outside into fresh air and enjoy the festivities.
Mr Proctor, who was awarded the prestigious Burma Star medal for his service during the war, was meant to be spending Christmas with his family but this had to be cancelled.
The retired factory worker’s daughter brought Christmas dinner to his flat instead but he was unable to spend the day with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Discussing the impact, his son Tom said: “The Thursday before Christmas, we were going to take him out for a meal at the pub which is next door to the building. We cancelled that.
“Christmas Day, he was going to be with my sister to celebrate with her and my family. But, she cancelled that and cooked Christmas dinner and took it to his flat. So he was sat in his flat eating Christmas dinner with one member of the family.
“[On Boxing Day] my two sons, me, and a couple of friends literally carried him down the stairs ... Going down the stairs backwards with a wheelchair and someone in it, it’s precarious to say the least. Going back up is just as bad.”