PATIENTS in South Gloucestershire can now expect a quicker delivery of emergency care.

This week the Great Western Ambulance Service will launch a new air ambulance.

The helicopter, which will be crewed by paramedics, doctors and life-saving equipment, will be based at Filton airport and will be able to reach the furthest parts of the district within eight minutes.

Tim Lynch, chief executive of Great Western Ambulance Service, said: "The new air ambulance has been set up in response to an identified gap in air ambulance cover for the people of Avon. It will save lives and complement the existing paramedic teams on the ground.

"It will also complement the services in Wiltshire and Gloucestershire when they need additional air support."

The air ambulance will cost £1.3 million a year to run and will initially fly five days a week, Tuesday to Saturday, eight hours a day.

It is hoped that eventually the helicopter will be available to respond to emergencies seven days a week and up to 12 hours a day.

The new air ambulance will operate with a pool of 16 crewmembers including, six doctors and 10 critical care paramedics, who have advanced skills in the management of critical care and trauma patients.

Fundraising to support the day-to-day operation of the new service is being co-ordinated by two charities set-up especially, The Great Western Air Ambulance Charity, which will handle donations, and the Melvyn's Trust, which will raise money through its recycling scheme.

Paul Weir, chief executive of Great Western Air Ambulance Charity, said: "The new air ambulance will rely entirely on the support of the community, you can help by making a donation whether as an individual, a member of a local organisation, school or company.

"You can also help by recycling your unwanted clothing, shoes and mobile telephones, as this service will be relying on funds raised by recycling unwanted items and exporting them to developing countries.

"We are literally recycling for life and your unwanted goods will help raise these vitally important funds."

Anyone wishing to support the new service should make cheques payable to the Great Western Air Ambulance Charity and send them to, Great Western Air Ambulance, Air Operations Office, Bristol Filton Airport, Filton, Bristol, BS99 7AR.

For more information about fundraising call 0845 838 8492.