Mum credits air ambulance crew with saving son

Nine-year-old Charlie is now recovering at home

The mother of a nine-year-old boy who was hit by a car while crossing the road has credited the response of an air ambulance crew with saving his life.

Charlie, from Leicester, was struck by a car outside his home on 12 February, and was found lying in the road by family members who had rushed outside after hearing a loud bang.

An ambulance arrived and due to the seriousness of his injuries, the Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance was dispatched and Charlie was taken to Queen's Medical Centre in Nottingham.

An air ambulance service spokesperson said Charlie is now recovering at home with his parents and siblings.

Following the call-out, the air ambulance landed in a nearby park, where Dr Jake Turner and paramedic Sam Cooper made the decision to sedate Charlie to protect his brain and prevent further damage.

Emma, Charlie's mum, said: "Without Dr Turner and Sam Cooper, I don't think Charlie would be here.

"I honestly believe they saved Charlie's life with how quickly they acted."

Charlie is now recovering at home, and his family and school have since organised fundraising events for the charity

Charlie had suffered severe brain injuries, including multiple brain bleeds, swelling, and a fractured skull.

The air ambulance service, which is a charity, said he spent two weeks in an induced coma and later developed sepsis before beginning a long road to recovery, relearning how to walk, talk, and eat.

Charlie is now recovering at home, and his family and school have since organised fundraising events for the charity.

A spokesperson for the service said: "Fundraisers and supporters help keep the helicopters flying and critical care cars on the road, meaning patients like Charlie can receive urgent care when they need it most."