NEW protective clothing and equipment which will allow paramedics to respond to life-threatening situations involving water was unveiled this week.

Hereford and Worcester Ambulance Service staff have also been receiving training at Northampton White Water Centre.

"Hereford and Worcester Ambulance Trust wants to be able to provide equal care to a patient who has either had a heart attack at home, on a boat in the river or in a flooded situation," said spokesman Janet Ferguson.

"While they need to rely on the skills of other emergency services they want to be able to care for the patient from the outset and at the same time ensure the safety of those involved in water rescue."