August 2008 - NOBLE VEHICLE HIRE MECHANIC TURNS HERO TO HELP DELIVER BABY IN DRIVING SEAT OF CAR
Mobile vehicle mechanic Matthew Pink came to the rescue of a heavily pregnant driver when he helped deliver her baby when they were both stuck in a traffic jam.
Matthew (22), who works for Darlington-based Noble Vehicle Hire, which is part of North East-based Northgate plc, the UK's largest light commercial vehicle rental operator with a fleet of more than 68,500 vehicles available for rent from 90 outlets across the UK, was on the A120 approaching Stansted Airport when the emergency struck.
He explained: "I was heading towards the Airport to service some vehicles when I got caught up in a traffic jam. I pulled up behind a Volvo car and noticed that the driver was sounding the car horn and the vehicle lights were flashing.
"I got out of my van and discovered a pregnant lady on her own in the car clearly in some distress. She was able to explain what the situation was and it was apparent that her waters had broken and contractions started.
"I ran back to my van and put some rubber gloves on and got some water and a towel. I then wound down the back of the car seat and tried to make her as comfortable as possible. By this time quite a few other motorists had gathered around and one of them phoned for an ambulance."
For about 60 minutes, Matthew comforted the driver and kept her calm until paramedics arrived on the scene and took charge.
Matthew, who had previously experienced the delivery of a baby when his partner went into labour, said: "I was relieved when the paramedics came on the scene. The baby was starting to arrive by this time but I was trying to do my best."
The baby was finally delivered in the driving seat of the car and has subsequently been named Matthew.
Matthew Pink said: "I'm very flattered. The lady [called Emma] telephoned me 24 hours after the baby was born to thank me very much for helping. She told me that she had named the baby after me and invited me to the christening when it takes place. It's an experience I'll never forget."
Noble Vehicle Hire, which operates a fleet of more than 2,000 commercial vehicles, provides flexible, contract-free rental solutions under the Norflex banner. This means hirers can return a vehicle whenever they want, unhindered by the contractual terms imposed by rival providers.
