Ambulance bosses have moved swiftly to quash allegations that Canvey ambulance station may not get round-the-clock cover.

Staff at the station had claimed the building would be locked and unmanned except between 11pm and 7am, when drivers could use its facilities.

But ambulance chiefs today (Thursday) said it was not true and an official statement that Canvey station would stay open at all times, still stood.

A spokeswoman added: "It is a shame disgruntled staff are coming up with these stories."

Canvey, along with Shoebury, has been earmarked as a "retained mainly for night cover" station.

But it appears the terminology is misleading. Bosses said in real terms that meant crews out on the road during the night would still be able to return to the station for comfort breaks.

It also means ambulance crews will be based at the island's station during the day - unless they are out on a call when the building is locked up.

Crews yesterday accused Health bosses of lying to them as speculation mounted over the exact situation at Canvey.

There were rumours that during the day crews would be based at Victoria House Corner in Hadleigh and would report to Rayleigh station.

One ambulance worker said: "They have been very evasive and have not come out with the full information. There are only two roads onto the island and we will not be able to reach a patient within the Government guidelines of eight minutes."

Ambulance bosses were due to meet health watchdog the Community Health Council today (Thursday) to discuss the overall picture.

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