Elderly couple thank emergency services for rescue on Christmas eve

An elderly couple whose car broke down on Christmas eve have thanked emergency services who rescued them.

Mr and Mrs Wharfe, both in their 80s, were travelling on the A470 from Llandudno towards the A55 at 4pm when their car started smoking, leaving them unable to see the road in front of them.  

A passerby saw the smoke and called 999.

In less than five minutes, the great-grandparents were relieved to see police arrive.

The couple has since been in touch to express their gratitude to those who helped them, Mr Wharfe said: “A lot of smoke was coming out of the car so we couldn’t see a thing, we thought the car was on fire.

“The police, fire service, ambulance and the breakdown recovery were all so kind to us.”

The road was closed whilst recovery was arranged for the car.

Mrs Wharfe said: “I am partially blind, and my husband is deaf, so we felt very scared on the side of the busy road. The people who came to help us made us feel safe and reassured.

“They were so patient with us even though it was Christmas eve.”

The great-grandparents were taken home by police and commented on their joy at their first experience in the back of a police car.

Mr Wharfe said: “The police told us not to worry, and that they wouldn’t leave us until we were home safely.

“I am so glad no one was injured with so many people trying to get home for Christmas.

“We received excellent care and attention from the ambulance workers who checked that we were okay, and the fire service checked our car before it was taken away by the recovery service.”

Feeling shaken up after the experience, Mrs Wharfe said: “We want to thank everybody that attended to us when we broke down.

“We feel so proud and grateful that North Wales emergency services are so caring, compassionate and attentive when helping members of the public. We received a wonderful service.”

The pair were taken home by officers feeling shaken up but comforted by the service they received. The couple, who have been married for more than 60 years, said they will be celebrating on New Year’s Eve and will be raising a glass to emergency service workers.