Man kicked medics after pulling baby's oxygen tube

Andrew Phillips admitted the offences during a hearing at Preston Crown Court

A man who attacked two nurses and a paramedic after pulling an oxygen tube which was connected to an 11-month-old baby has been jailed.

Andrew Phillips, 26, became aggressive towards medics while being treated at Blackpool Victoria Hospital on 28 January.

Lancashire Police said Phillips "caused chaos" and was believed to have taken cocaine while at the hospital.

He was jailed for two years and six months with an extended licence period of 24 months at Preston Crown Court.

The force said Phillips tried to enter areas where other patients were being treated and was warned by staff not to go into a cubicle where the baby was receiving care.

But Phillips barged past a paramedic and nurse, picked up a chair and threw it out of the cubicle, before falling into and pulling at the IV cable and oxygen tube which were attached to the baby, police said.

Staff attacked

As the paramedic and two nurses tried to disconnect the tubes to get the baby to safety, he then pulled the arm of one of the nurses, causing a fracture to her arm and wrist.

Phillips punched and kicked out at other staff, with another nurse suffering a bruised ankle.

Lancashire Police said the baby was unharmed by Phillips' actions.

Phillips, of Grange Road, Blackpool, pleaded guilty to inflicting grievous bodily harm, assault causing actual bodily harm and affray.

Det Con Alexa Taylor said: "I hope the sentence sends a clear message that the police and courts will not tolerate disturbances on hospital grounds and attacks on our colleagues within the NHS.

"Hospitals, NHS staff and paramedics provide care to the sick, injured and vulnerable, and should not be assaulted or put at risk while they are working."