A PENSIONER has died after his car crashed into a wall at a health clinic despite the efforts of people to save him.

The driver, who was in his 70s, was killed when his black Peugeot 407 hit the brick wall in the car park of the Moor Street Clinic, Worcester, at about 3pm on Monday. One passer- by smashed a window in an attempt to drag him out but it was in vain.

Several people who tried to help, including some staff, needed first aid after smoke started to pour from the wheels of the car.

The man, who has yet to be named but is from Worcester, was on his way to an appointment at the clinic.

Ambulance staff, fire crews and police were all called to the scene, but he was pronounced dead moments after the smash.

Nearby resident Doris Edworthy, aged 71, who lives in Moor Street, said: “It sounds like an absolute tragedy. My heart goes out to his family. I can’t remember anything like this happening around here before. It’s such a quiet area.”

Two fire engines from Worcester and Droitwich attended the scene and found the car wrecked. A spokesman for Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service said: “Firefighters used a hose reel to damp down the vehicle and they also offered treatment to several people nearby for the effects of smoke inhalation.”

Police have now launched an appeal for witnesses to the crash. PC Mark Roberts said: “Our thoughts are with the man’s friends and family at this sad time as we try to piece together exactly how the collision happened.

“He was the only person inside the car and we are keen to hear from anyone who may have seen the vehicle travelling along Moor Street before it entered the car park.”

A spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance Service said: “A rapid response vehicle and an ambulance went to the scene but the man was confirmed dead on arrival.”

The Worcestershire Coroner has been informed of the man’s death and a post mortem examination will take place in due course.

The NHS clinic offers dentistry, speech therapy, sexual health advice, physiotherapy, audiology and podiatry.

A spokesman for Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust, said: “The trust offers its sincere condolences to the family for their tragic loss. Our thoughts are with them at this very difficult time.”

Anyone who may have witnessed the collision is asked to call police on 03003 333000 quoting reference 437S 170912.