A CALL for increased ambulance cover in the Ribble Valley fell on deaf ears at a council meeting in Clitheroe.

Ribble Valley councillor Allan Knox asked fellow councillors to back his call at a meeting in the council chamber.

But health bosses have already said they are aware of the problem and plan to consider the matter at a top meeting shortly.

And Coun Knox's motion calling on health bosses to increase ambulance cover in Ribble Valley was given the thumbs-down by councillors.

Liberal Democrat Allan Knox said: "A concerned constituent contacted us after her husband fell late at night and broke his leg. He had to wait for an hour before an ambulance arrived. We recognise the wonderful service and professionalism of ambulance crews serving the Ribble Valley, but this service is placed under stress and strain, because for many hours of the day and night there is just one vehicle operating from Clitheroe Ambulance Station."

His motion calling on the Ribble Valley Council to put pressure on health bosses for a second ambulance in Clitheroe was defeated in favour of an amendment by council leader Chris Holtom.

Coun Holtom said: "We need to get our facts right.

"All targets set by the National Health Service for accident and emergency admissions are being exceeded and, in addition to the Clitheroe ambulance, there are others on stand-by in neighbouring areas, as well as paramedic cars and first responder teams.

"We ask that the primary care trusts serving the Ribble Valley look at whether or not extra cover is actually needed and invite officers from the Lancashire Ambulance Service to attend a future council meeting with a progress report."

His motion, seconded by Bolton-by-Bowland councillor Philip Nierop, was carried by 18 votes to 10.