Wiltshire Air Ambulance undertook its most missions last year since the charity became a stand-alone air ambulance in 2015.

According to the latest figures, last year the charity undertook 1,233 missions, an increase of 12 per cent, with 920 via its rapid reponse cars and 313 by helicopter.

The largest number of incidents that Wiltshire Air Ambulance responded to were in the Swindon area - 224.

Other areas in Wiltshire where the team were called to were; Cricklade - 6; Malmesbury - 23.

Wiltshire Air Ambulance were also called to incidents in neighbouring counties including Gloucestershire.

David Philpott, chief executive of Wiltshire Air Ambulance, said: “Despite the well documented issues with our Bell 429 helicopter during 2019, our aircrew were busier than they have ever been.

“When our helicopter is unable to fly our critical care paramedics and doctors use Rapid Response Vehicles.

"The vehicles have the same medical equipment that is onboard the helicopter so we are still able to provide gold standard medical care to patients.

”We rely on donations to provide our essential service so we’d like to thank our supporters for their generosity and our volunteers for their dedication in attending fundraising events and raising awareness of our charity.”

This year Wiltshire Air Ambulance celebrates a significant milestone - its 30th year of operation.

For more information about the charity visit www.wiltshireairambulance.co.uk.