PEDALLING paramedic Mark Inman took a brief break today to celebrate the first birthday of the project which launched him on to the streets of York.

Mark, who has covered more than 4,600 miles while responding to 800 emergency calls, took a breather at Lord Mayor of York, Coun Irene Waudby's official residence, the Mansion House, to cut a cake to celebrate the Life-Cycle projects anniversary.

He said: "It's been a tremendously successful year during which I've forged so many friendships across the city. The people of York have been wonderfully supportive."

His call-outs over the past year have included a resuscitation in Marks & Spencer, a heart attack on top of York Minster, helping the occupants of a car that had plunged into the River Foss and treating a woman who fell between a train and a platform at York station.

His quick response in the crowded city centre has helped to stand down more than 100 ambulances, leaving them free to deal with other emergencies.

During the year, his bike, which is provided and serviced by Cycle Heaven of York, has needed three new chains, two bottom brackets and a new set of tyres.

Paul Brown, Life-Cycle project manager, said: "Life-Cycle is now recognised everywhere. It's environmentally-friendly and has achieved a fantastic level of response, getting to 98 per cent of life-threatening calls in eight minutes. It's area was bounded by the city walls, but Mark is now attending calls in Acomb, Fulford and Tang Hall."

He thanked Living Well fitness for keeping Mark fit, and sponsors Tesco, British Sugar and the British Heart Foundation.

All five of the country's cycling paramedics will compete in the first Emergency 999 Challenge at the annual York Rally Cycle Show which will be held in the city from June 21 to 23.

Updated: 15:00 Wednesday, May 01, 2002