NEARLY 50 ambulance staff paid their respects yesterday to a work colleague who was killed in a crash that also claimed the life of an elderly patient.

They gathered at the spot where 42-year-old Gill Randall died last Friday when her ambulance left the road and hit a tree.

Gill was driving an 88-year-old to Southampton General Hospital when the crash occurred.

Many hugged and consoled each other before making the short walk along the busy A337 near Brockenhurst.

Some continued to wipe away tears as they placed floral tributes at the scene.

The ambulance service's chief executive, Will Hancock, said: “Gill died doing the job she loved. It was an emotional and devastating event that will change us all.”

Gill was based at Lymington ambulance station. Colleague John Tutton was among those paying tribute.

He said: “Gill was a popular girl with a heart of gold. She was also a very hard-working member of the team – a real grafter.”

Mr Tutton praised the large number of people who turned out to honour their fellow NHS worker.

“I came here today expecting to see about half a dozen yellow jackets but there must have been 50. It’s just amazing,” he said.

Two people were seriously injured in the crash – a male member of the ambulance crew and the son of the patient who died.

The ambulanceman was Rich Riley, who is married with a young family. He worked in London but moved to Hampshire about 18 months ago.

The son of the patient was David Ironside, chairman of Hordle Parish Council and a member of New Milton Rugby Club.

Cllr Ironside, who was accompanying his father to hospital, is understood to have injured his ribs and pelvis.

Mr Riley and Cllr Ironside are both said to be in a serious condition in Southampton General Hospital.

Cllr Ironside's father has not been officially identified.

A member of Hordle Parish Council said: “David’s a lovely man and we’re all very upset. It's an absolute tragedy for everyone involved.”

The ambulance left the road after it was involved in a collision with a Seat Alhambra as both vehicles headed north along the A337.

The car was being driven by a 25-year-old Brockenhurst man who was later arrested on suspicion of causing death by driving without due care and attention. He has since been released on bail until July 29 pending further inquiries.