Glue poured into door locks stopped staff reaching vital life saving equipment at a Southend ambulance headquarters, it was revealed today.

Vandals attacked the doors at the St John ambulance station at the junction of Princes Street and Queens Road.

Brigade member Peter Grant said: "We needed to get one of the ambulances out because it needed an MOT before it was stationed on the seafront. We were forced however to get into the building through a fire exit at the rear.

Mr Grant added: "This latest incident could have been a life or death situation, but it will not stop us."

Anybody wanting to join St John or enrol in one of their first aid courses should call 01702 345243.

Published Thursday August 15, 2002

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