Ambulance service's �1.6m investment in new fleet

THE ambulance service has invested an unprecedented �1.6million on a new fleet of emergency vehicles. The East of England Ambulance Service has bought 160 state-of-the-art vehicles, each costing �100,000. Fifty of the new ambulances will be in operatio

THE ambulance service has invested an "unprecedented" �1.6million on a new fleet of emergency vehicles.

The East of England Ambulance Service has bought 160 state-of-the-art vehicles, each costing �100,000.

Fifty of the new ambulances will be in operation this month, with the remainder gradually replacing the service's existing fleet over the next two years.

David Monks, general manager of A&E and Primary Care in Cambridgeshire, said: "This is massive amount of money, an unprecedented level of investment, and proves our long-term commitment to improving our service."

Patients and crews will benefit from a revised interior fit, which will improve patient comfort and also allow crews to stand upright in the back for the first time, making it easier for them to move around in the back of the vehicle and treat their patients.

The vehicles will also be able to cater for obese patients whereas existing ambulances are subject to weight limits.