Hearing over paramedic who punched man on duty (From Harrow Times)

Harrow paramedic Mark Wells-Pestell claims self defence in 'road rage' probe

3:24pm Monday 26th July 2010 in News By Tristan Kirk

A HARROW paramedic who was fired for punching a member of the public in the face during an alleged road rage incident faces being struck off.

Mark Wells-Pestell, 41, left the driver with cuts to his face and broken tooth after hitting him by the side of the road in Alexandra Avenue in October 2008.

However, the paramedic, who was based at Kenton Ambulance Station, says he was acting in self defence and claims the unnamed driver attacked him first, trying to headbutt him.

A three-day fitness to practice hearing has started at the Health Professionals Council to determine if punishment needs to be taken against Mr Wells-Pestell, including barring him from practising medicine.

The experienced paramedic, who was awarded bravery medals for his time as a medical professional on special military duties, was suspended and eventually fired after the incident, which happened as he responded to an emergency call.

He told the Harrow Times at the time that the motorist had obstructed him, and further down the road when the ambulance had to stop due to a brakes failure, the driver pulled over and began hurling abuse at him.

It is Mr Wells-Pestell's case that the motorist, who was later arrested, came at him, forcing him into actions which were in self defence and to restrain the man. Harrow Police looked into the incident and did not charge the man.

The panel of health professions are looking at whether the incident constituted misconduct and whether his fitness to practice has been impaired.

The hearing continues.