Reddie Flintoff has paid a heartfelt tribute to NHS staff who helped him through his darkest days following his horrific crash during a Top Gear shoot.
“I came here probably at the lowest I’ve ever been. The love and compassion they showed me was incredible,” said Flintoff during a visit to the very hospital that played a vital role in his recovery.
The former England cricket star, now part of the England Lions and Northern Superchargers Men’s coaching set-up, returned to St George’s Hospital in Tooting to personally thank the medics who treated him after the high-speed crash at Dunsfold Aerodrome in Surrey in December 2022.
Flintoff, who was filming for the BBC motoring show Top Gear at the time, sustained serious injuries. The impact left him physically broken and mentally shaken.
Flintoff, known for his grit on the cricket field, revealed that the crash pushed him to the edge — emotionally and physically. His moving tribute to NHS staff highlights the life-saving and life-changing role of compassionate healthcare.
The 46-year-old was airlifted to St George’s – a major trauma centre – immediately after the crash. Reflecting on the care he received, he didn’t hold back in his praise.
“I’ll be eternally grateful – absolute superheroes,” Flintoff said. It wasn’t just the medical attention that stayed with him – it was the kindness and human connection.
Consultant oral and maxillofacial surgeon Jahrad Haq was on call the day Flintoff was brought in.
“Of all the trauma cases I’ve seen in over 20 years, this was among the most complex,” he said. “A lot of injuries are managed at a more junior level before escalating, so I knew this one was serious.”
Consultant trauma and orthopaedic surgeon Shamim Umarji added: “It’s very rewarding when patients come back and you get to see them not just as patients, but as people. It’s a real privilege.”
She also shared how Flintoff’s return to the hospital deeply moved the team: “It was wonderful to see Freddie again… his visit gave staff a real boost.”
Kate Slemeck, Managing Director for St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, expressed her pride in the hospital staff: “It’s always heart-warming to hear from patients about the expert care, compassion and kindness they’ve received… this shows the lasting impact they have on people, long after they’ve left hospital.”
In the documentary Flintoff on Disney+, the ex-cricketer relives the terrifying moment. He spoke about how instincts from his cricketing days kicked in as he tried to lessen the force of the impact.
He was reportedly dragged face down along the runway for around 50 metres under the vehicle. The crash was so severe, he admitted, “I thought I had died in the accident.”
Following the incident, Flintoff disappeared from the public eye. For months, he only ventured out for medical appointments. His long road to recovery is detailed in the emotional documentary, which lays bare the extent of his physical injuries and the mental toll it took.
Freddie Flintoff’s heartfelt gratitude offers a rare glimpse into the personal side of a public figure’s recovery.
More than just a thank you, it’s a reminder of the quiet heroism that defines the NHS. As the healthcare system continues to evolve under growing pressure, stories like Flintoff’s highlight how crucial expert, compassionate care remains.
For further insight into where the NHS is heading, explore our breakdown of the 10-Year NHS Health Plan.
