Air ambulance copter flies north to cut costs

The aircraft is expected to move to Bagby Airfield, near Thirsk, at the start of next year from its current base in Sheffield. The decision was announced yesterday by the air ambulance charity, which celebrated its 10th anniversary last week, as part of the review to provide the best cover for emergency call-outs while also curbing costs.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance chairman Peter Sunderland claimed the move would offer "considerable cost savings", although an exact figure has not been announced.

He said: "We have a responsibility to make sure all monies donated are spent properly, wisely and efficiently."

The charity's other helicopter will continue to operate from Leeds Bradford International Airport. Each area of Yorkshire will be an average of 10 minutes' flying time from the respective air bases after the relocation.