Stolen bleed kit prompts police investigation

Police have released CCTV images of a man they would like to speak to

A life-saving bleed kit has been stolen from a city centre location.

Avon and Somerset Police said the kit was taken from Frogmore Street, Bristol, on Sunday at about 15:30 BST.

Officers have released an image a man they want to speak to in connection with the theft. He is pictured riding a bicycle and is described as white, bald, wearing sunglasses, a dark jacket, black trainers and red trousers.

Anybody who recognises the man or has information which could help the investigation is asked to contact police.

Clive Setter, from HeartSafe UK, said the kits have "no monetary value", but are "invaluable" in times of emergency.

"It's the damage it does by not being there, should someone need it," he said.

"Whoever did this should realise it’s not a prank if somebody is injured.

"It could be needed for your family... anybody may be in a situation where there’s a loss of blood."

Vital kits

He added that the kits are vital for communities and have already helped to save people all over the country.

The missing life-saving kit is one of 106 in Bristol, which were installed following a partnership between the police, HeartSafe UK and NHS England South.

Each kit contains tourniquets, wound dressings, gloves, medical shears, a thermal blanket and clear instructions. Many kits are located next to public defibrillators.

They can be accessed 24/7 and can be used by non-trained members of the public in the event of catastrophic bleeding in the "critical minutes" before emergency services arrive at the scene.