Settlement for firefighter hurt by runaway car

A retained firefighter who suffered serious injuries when a runaway car crashed into the tent he was camping in, has received compensation four years after the incident.

Leigh Redman, 44, from Bridgwater, Somerset, needed surgery to his spine and had to retire from the Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service on health grounds.

His wife Tracey was also injured in the incident at a holiday park in Budleigh Salterton, Devon, in August 2008.

Mr Redman, who has continued to work in an office in his regular job as a contract manager, said: "The accident was like a waking nightmare and we are just fortunate that we both didn't suffer more serious injures and that our daughter wasn't in the tent with us.

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"It has taken me a long time to come to terms with my injuries.

"I realise now that I'm never going to be 100% and it is disappointing that I had to give up my duties with the fire service.

"It was a job I loved but it became clear that I was never going to be able to manage the physical aspects of the job."

Paul Woolstenholmes, national legal officer of the Fire Brigades Union, which supported Mr Redman, said: "This was a horrific accident which could have easily been a double fatality.

"The impact of Mr Redman's injuries has meant the fire service has lost a loyal and hard-working firefighter.

"We are pleased our legal services have been able to help him in his claim for compensation."

James Davies from Thompsons Solicitors, which took the case, said: "This was a freak accident that could easily have been a double fatality. Leigh and his wife were fortunate to escape with their lives."

The amount of compensation was undisclosed.