Hundreds suffered broken bones in York during big freeze (From York Press)

Hundreds suffered broken bones in York during big freeze

8:59am Thursday 18th March 2010

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MORE than 20 people a day suffered broken bones in York during the big freeze – an increase of almost two thirds on last year.

From December 17 to January 14, at the height of the winter whiteout, 605 people were admitted to York Hospital with a fracture. In 2008/9, the corresponding figure was 368 – showing a rise this winter of 64 per cent.

The worst individual day, December 28, saw 36 people admitted to the hospital with breaks, up from 11 on the same day in 2008.

Although the hospital does not record the cause of the fractures, staff believe the treacherous underfoot conditions across York were to blame.

David Scott, leader of the Labour opposition on City of York Council, said the statistics showed the need for a full review of the city’s gritting.

He said: “This vindicates what we have asked for – a complete review. A 64 per cent increase is a dramatic increase.”

He said some councils were increasing their gritting programmes, through funding from local health trusts, and said York should look at doing likewise.

City of York Council gritted round the clock at the height of the big freeze, but there was fresh controversy over the earlier removal of 200 salt bins across the city.

Council leader Andrew Waller said: “The executive had already asked the director of neighbourhood services to review the winter maintenance manual for the council and this is ongoing.

“Officers are working with the hospital and health providers to see what changes would be beneficial in the future.”

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