A PENSIONER has praised the Worcester BID for its swift response after she was knocked unconscious after tripping on an uneven pavement slab.
Wendy Lee suffered a serious head injury after tripping on an uneven pavement slab outside M&S during a visit to the city centre on 17 June.
The 74-year-old was knocked unconscious and needed urgent medical assistance.
Within moments, members of the Worcester BID City Welfare Team arrived at the scene, administering emergency first aid, providing reassurance, and assessing her condition until paramedics took over.
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“I don’t know what would have happened without the help I received,” she said.
Worcester resident Wendy Lee suffered a bad head injury after tripping over an uneven pavement slab outside M&S. (Image: Wendy Lee)
“I was knocked unconscious and had quite a deep gash on my temple.
“I am incredibly grateful to everyone who stopped to help me.”
Staff from a nearby shop stepped in to alert the BID City Welfare team and offered assistance while first aid was administered on the pavement.
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Worcester BID’s City Welfare and Safe Space initiative operates across the city centre to ensure Worcester remains a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment for shoppers, visitors, and local businesses alike.
Bee Jones, Product Team Leader at River Island Worcester, said: “I witnessed an elderly woman fall outside our store, resulting in a severe head injury.
“I immediately used the CityNet radio to contact City Welfare, Worcester BID, and CCTV.
“They all arrived promptly, assessed the situation, and provided medical care.
“We later learned that Wendy had tripped on an uneven section of pavement.
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“The quick response and teamwork shown by everyone involved played a vital role in ensuring her welfare and safety.”
Worsening pavements in Worcester city centre have been raised by Worcester City Council leader Lynn Denham, who had expressed fears that someone could be seriously injured if no action was taken.
Cllr Denham said: “Wendy’s tragic accident shows just how serious the situation is.
Uneven pavements have been a trip hazard to walkers in Worcester city centre. (Image: Newsquest)
“Worcestershire County Council have a duty of care to all residents, and it should be safe to walk up Worcester’s High Street.
“It is fortunate that Worcester BID Safe Space Team were able to help Wendy and get her urgent medical attention.
“Unfortunately, I understand that an elderly lady has since fallen over in the same spot.”
A spokesperson for Worcestershire County Council said: “We were sorry to hear that this lady had a fall in the High Street and was injured.
“We wish her a full and speedy recovery and hope that she is recovering well.
“We will contact her directly, and we will arrange for the area to be inspected again to make sure it remains safe until the permanent repairs can be carried out.”
