States member fractures spine

ALDERNEY States member Peter Allen had to be airlifted to Guernsey on Tuesday after breaking his back.

Mr Allen, who is an electrician for Alderney Electricity, was working at the power station when he fell off a ladder shortly before 11am.

Mr Allen, 43, said; "I lost my footing on the ladder, fell from about two feet in the air and stumbled backwards.

"It wasn't very dramatic but I fell awkwardly. I tried to get up but was in too much pain."

Father of three Mr Allen was airlifted to Guernsey's Princess Elizabeth Hospital where X-rays showed he had suffered a fracture of a lumber vertebra.

Mr Allen, who was elected to the States eight months ago, said: "It's a stable spinal fracture - one that doesn't affect the spinal chord - so I've been quite lucky.

"I've been given a back brace and feel OK when I'm wearing it. I've been in a lot of pain but the medication has helped."

Mr Allen went on to praise medical staff in Alderney and Guernsey.

"Everybody who helped me was really impressive, from the first aiders at work to all the doctors and nurses in Guernsey. I'd also like to give a special mention to Dr Bob Marks, who was brilliant."

Mr Allen is recuperating at his Le Banquage home. He will return to the PEH's fracture clinic in a fortnight, after which he is hoping to get back to work.

One comment on this article

Create a unique icon for your replies at gravatar.com	Andy | Mon 31st August 2009 I hope hes alright I suggest Alderney Electricity get some work at height training as these incidents are normally preventable.

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