AN airbound emergency service is about to fly into a new era as it welcomes its own paramedics on board.
From April 1, The North West Air Ambulance will take over full responsibility for the operation and staffing of its two helicopters rather than using paramedics from North West Ambulance Service.
Announcing the decision, Lynda Brislin, air ambulance chief executive, said: “For the public there will be no change - they will continue to receive the very best in emergency care.
"For us, it’s a new era as we can more easily manage our day-to-day operations in-house.”
The helicopters, which are based at Blackpool and Manchester airposts, have a maximum flying time of 10 minutes to the nearest appropriate hospital anywhere in the north west.
Bob Williams, deputy chief executive of the North West Ambulance Service, said: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the staff at ambulance service involved in operating and fundraising.
“I am sure the helicopters will continue to work in harmony alongside the ambulance service to provide an excellent service to the north west.”
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