THE Wiltshire Air Ambulance (WAA) unveiled a new helicopter on Friday – with a top speed of 180mph.
It will be the first ambulance solely operated by the charity.
The ceremonial landing took place at Trafalgar Park and the Lord-Lieutenant of Wiltshire, Sarah Troughton, officially welcomed the new craft along with long-term supporters of the WAA.
WAA was established in 1990 but since its creation it has shared a helicopter with Wiltshire Police and the Bell 429, which is the first helicopter of its kind to operate in the UK, will allow them to get to as many emergencies as possible.
WAA chairman Mandy Clarke said: “We are delighted to receive our new helicopter and begin a ten-year partnership with Heli Charter, who are providing the aircraft and the pilots.
“Our patients will benefit as the Bell 429 is fast so we can get patients to hospitals very quickly.”
The air ambulance will be in action 19 hours a day and is due to start operating from January 1.
It will be temporarily based at the police headquarters in Devizes.
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