AMBULANCES have been getting stuck on a private road after drivers were given the wrong directions by satellite navigation systems.
Around five ambulances have travelled down Hill Lane in Burwardsley during the past few months, only to find the cobbled road leads onto a mud track unsuitable for vehicles, followed by a barrier.
Other vehicles have also been wrongly directed to the dead end.
Jean Dutton, who lives on the lane, said: 'The vehicles get caught in the mud as there is a steep slope.
'We have had a few people knock on our door and ask for help as it is very difficult to turn around.
'It is worrying that it is happening to ambulances.
'My husband has gone out a few times to help people get back on the main road - one vehicle's clutch was burned out.
'It must be quite frightening in the dark - it is a long lane.'
Peckforton Estates, who own the land, have been discussing the problem with Burwardsley Parish Council.
A barrier was erected but drivers took it down, assuming the road was public.
A spokesperson for the ambulance service said: 'We respond to more than 800 calls per day and have very few instances within any week where there are problems.
'Patient care has never been compromised. In the event of any navigational problems arising, crews have access to Ordnance Survey maps on board vehicles, which are used to guide them to patients where necessary.'
Burwardsley Parish Councillor Audrey Ryder said: 'We have been in touch with the satellite navigation companies and we now have to wait until they update their records.'
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