By Ted JeoryA TEENAGE schoolboy was airlifted to hospital after he dislocated his knee during a rugby match.The 16-year-old boy was playing rugby at Philip Morant School, Colchester, when he collapsed in agony shortly after 1pm yesterday.

By Ted Jeory

A TEENAGE schoolboy was airlifted to hospital after he dislocated his knee during a rugby match.

The 16-year-old boy was playing rugby at Philip Morant School, Colchester, when he collapsed in agony shortly after 1pm yesterday.

A paramedic manager was first on scene and called for the Essex Air Ambulance to airlift the injured teenager to hospital.

Trevor Redburn, operations manager for Essex Ambulance Service, said: “The 16-year-old from Colchester had dislocated his right knee very badly and was in a great deal of pain.

“Due to the location on the rugby pitch it would have been impossible to get a land vehicle anywhere near him without risking getting it stuck in the mud.

“Moving a stretcher over that distance would have put the patient and crew at danger from slipping.

“The helicopter was able to land right next to him. The helicopter was also an ideal way to move him given his condition - the ride is much smoother than a land vehicle.”

A teacher went with the boy to Colchester General Hospital, where he received treatment.

Essex Air Ambulance is a charity funded by donations, but is operated by Essex Ambulance Service. It costs £1,500 an hour of flying time, plus about £95,000 a month running costs.

An Essex Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Last week one of our ambulances got stuck in the mud when we were called to assist in a match in London.

“Yesterday's combination of circumstances - of muddy fields and ensuring the best ride for the patient - meant this was an appropriate decision, but we would not normally send a helicopter to a patient with a dislocated knee.”

ted.jeory@eadt.co.uk