PARAMEDICS in Bolton are being attacked on a regular basis, according to figures released on Thursday.

Dozens of ambulance crews have been the victim of attacks this year and say they are working in a climate of fear.

From April 2004 to March 2005, staff working for Greater Manchester Ambulance Service reported 341 incidents of verbal or physical aggression, an average of one a day.

Many believe Christmas will make things worse because the festive season sees an increase in booze-fuelled attacks.

One Bolton ambulanceman with more than 10 years' experience said: "The days when you wouldn't touch a paramedic are long gone.

"Attacks on ambulance crews are on the increase, as with other emergency services.

"I have seen colleagues thumped in the face and know of one man who was chased out of a house by a guy with a knife. He was sure if he hadn't made it to the ambulance he would have been knifed."

The man, who did not want to be named, said alcohol was often the catalyst.

"Drinking often plays a really big part," he said. "When the 24-hour licensing kicks in, the situation will get worse.

"Often you get an emergency call but when you arrive the person's drunk. Then, because you don't take them to hospital with the blue lights flashing, their friends or relatives will get aggressive with you.

"On some jobs we have to wait for the police to accompany us. You can be called to deal with a drunk minutes after you've been with the family of somebody who's been killed in an accident."

Another Bolton paramedic said: "I have seen colleagues assaulted and our equipment and vehicles damaged.

"It happens on a regular basis and it doesn't matter what the colour of your uniform is, they'll still hit you."

John Burnside, ambulance service chief executive, said: "We encourage staff to report abuse and offer support .

"Our crews save lives on a daily basis and it is saddening that a mindless few are subjecting them to violence and abuse."