PATIENTS can expect a speedier ride to hospital if they are picked up by one of three new state-of-the-art ambulances.

Bigger but faster is how Steve McGuinness, director of operations at Hereford and Worcester Ambulance Trust, described the vehicles, which cost £86,000 each.

Each ambulance is kitted out with a satellite navigation system, which will help crews find patients in both rural and urban areas.

"Three new paramedic ambulances have now been commissioned into service as part of our replacement programme," said Mr McGuinness.

"The new ambulances are different from the rest of the current fleet, the main difference being that the new design gives greater working space in the rear saloon.

"They are bigger than anything else in our fleet and are a lot faster.

"It has also allowed a re-design of the patient monitoring space required for the hi-tech equipment now used to support patients en-route to hospital.

"The traditional bulkhead door leading from the front cab to the rear is no longer in place and this again allows greater utilisation of space.

"There is also a side door for paramedic staff to gain access to the rear saloon from the pavement without needed to open the rear doors.

"These vehicles really are a welcome addition to the operational fleet.