Relief for ambulance chiefs over hammer attack conviction

Stacey Smith had built up a burning hatred of her boss at NWAS and was found guilty of her attempted murder

- ANDREW BARDSLEY

AMBULANCE bosses have told of their 'relief' after a former employee was convicted of attempted murder.

Stacey Smith, 46, was told she faces a lengthy prison sentence after subjecting her former boss to a terrifying hammer attack. Smith had built up a burning hatred and resentment for Michala Morton, who was then her manager at the North West Ambulance Service (NWAS).

As Ms Morton left her home in Dukinfield, Smith began attacking her with a hammer. She hit her on the head, arms, legs and torso. Ms Morton suffered a fractured wrist after being hit as she raised her arms to protect herself.

CCTV footage captured audio of Ms Morton screaming in terror and begging for help. Earlier this week, Smith was found guilty of attempted murder.

She will be sentenced later this month.

Following the trial, an NWAS spokesperson released a statement.

It read: "We share the relief with Michala over the verdict delivered by the jury. The last year has been difficult for her, and we hope this will mark a milestone in her ongoing recovery.