Schoolgirl impaled on bike's handlebars thanks her nurses

Ten-year-old Emily West Nethercot fell onto her bicycle while playing at her grandparents’ home, in Durham City, last month.

A brake lever went through her chest and was protruding from her back, near her shoulder blade.

Emily, of Houghton-le- Spring, Wearside, was rushed to the Treetops children’s ward, at the University Hospital of North Durham (UHND).

Three weeks on, she returned to Treetops at the weekend to thank nurses who cared for her, by presenting the ward with a dolls’ house.

Emily said: “I was wheeling my bike down the side of the house and must have slipped because it fell over and I landed on top of it and the brake lever went right into my chest.”

After Emily was injured, her older sister Chloe called their grandparents, who supported her until an ambulance arrived. An air ambulance was also called.

Firefighters cut the lever from the bike before Emily was taken to the hospital’s accident and emergency department.

She underwent X-rays to determine the exact position of the lever before Dr Rob Greig removed it from her body without causing any further injury.

Emily, who attends Cestria Primary School, in Chesterle- Street, was then transferred to the Treetops ward to recover.

Angela Traynor, who works on the Treetops ward, said: “We were all amazed at Emily because she was so brave and never even cried.

“It was one of those bloodcurdling injuries that was the talk of the hospital. It’s really lovely to see her so well so quickly.”

Tracey Wintrip, who also works on the ward, added: “The children will love the dolls’ house. It’s in such good condition and full of furniture and fittings – even a washing machine.”

The accident happened at about 2pm on Sunday, October 30, in Larches Road, Durham City.

Firefighters praised Emily’s bravery throughout the ordeal.

Treetops ward is always happy to receive toys and games in a good condition for children staying in hospital.