OPINION - Our ambulance service is in freefall but nobody dares call it an emergency

I’ve been swimming in Hampstead ladies pond through the winter for years now, but in the last couple of seasons I’ve been concerned that things are getting a bit soft over there. “Be aware of the low temperatures!” a new noticeboard reads, while concerned lifeguards flutter about, checking that you’ve done this before. “Get in slowly!” “Every added degree is a minute you should take off your swim!”. At this time of year most of us there are regulars, and you can see people feeling huffy.