Andrew Flintoff hails NHS staff who cared for him after car crash

Andrew Flintoff has praised the “love and compassion” of NHS staff who cared for him after his car crash at a Top Gear test track.

The former international cricketer and current England Lions and Northern Superchargers Men’s coach visited hospital workers who looked after him in the aftermath of the accident, which he described as “the lowest I’ve ever been”.

In December 2022, Flintoff sustained severe injuries while filming at the Dunsfold Aerodrome in Surrey for an episode of BBC show Top Gear.

His surgeon described Flintoff’s case as one of the most complex he has ever seen.

Flintoff was airlifted to St George’s Hospital in Tooting – a major trauma centre.

“I just want to say a massive thank you to all the staff at St George’s,” Flintoff said.

“I came here probably the lowest I’ve ever been, in need of help and the expertise, the love, the compassion they showed me was incredible.

“I’ll be eternally grateful – absolute superheroes.”

Recalling the incident, consultant oral and maxillofacial surgeon Jahrad Haq, said: “I was on call that day and received a phone call from the emergency department consultant.

“A lot of injuries are managed at a more junior level before escalating, so I knew this one was serious.

“Of all the trauma cases I’ve seen in over 20 years, this was among the most complex.”

Shamim Umarji, consultant trauma and orthopaedic surgeon, said: “It’s very rewarding when patients come back and you get to see them not just as patients, but as people. It’s a real privilege.

“When you see their recovery, you remember how important our job is.

“It was wonderful to see Freddie again and his visit gave staff a real boost. He spent a lot of time chatting to everyone and it meant a lot.”

Kate Slemeck, managing