'Mad Butcher' St John complaint prompts inquiry

Peter Leitch admits his language was colourful, but is surprised at the operator's reaction. Picture / Paul Estcourt

St John Ambulance is promising a full inquiry into a 111 call made by the 'Mad Butcher' Peter Leitch.

Mr Leitch claims an operator threatened to hang-up on him during a call he made when a guest took ill at a charity function in Auckland.

He admits his language was colourful but says it was because he was in a stressful situation, and the operator should have been used to dealing with people under pressure.

St John Ambulance spokeswoman Linda Donaldson said they will be reviewing the tapes this week.

But she says it would be speculative to comment further on the inquiry until it has been completed.

Mr Leitch said he believed St John Ambulance does an excellent job most of the time.

He admitted he got frustrated when the operator wanted details he did not know.

He said he could not believe it when the man threatened to hang up on him for swearing.

- NEWSTALK ZB