New Isle of Man patient transfer taxi firm appointed

Minister Beecroft said both "cost and quality of service" were taken into consideration

A new taxi provider for Isle of Man patients travelling to north-west England for medical treatment has been announced.

A government spokesman said Liverpool-based ComCab had been chosen to take over from Bridgewater following a "competitive tendering process."

Nearly 2,000 people signed a petition to keep Bridgewater which held the contract for more than a decade.

The firm will be used to take patients from ports to hospitals.

Minister for Health and Social Care, Kate Beecroft MHK, said: "I am aware of the strength of feeling by some in our community about this issue and the high regard they have for the current provider Bridgewater.

'Exemplary service'

"I would like to place on record the department's thanks for their exemplary service."

Bridgewater also had an appeal turned down.

Health chiefs said "those who travel regularly should not see any change in service, which will include full assistance and door-to-door collection and drop-off as standard".

ComCab has 15 years' experience of transferring patients for the North West Ambulance Service and already delivers more than 900 transfers a week.

General manager Karen Long said: "I believe our record and reputation demonstrate our ability to deliver a first-class service for Isle of Man patients and their escorts."

The new firm will take over the contract on 27 March.