Extra resources aid ambulance teams deal with festive rush

Ambulance crews gearing up for their busiest time of the year have been praised by health secretary Nicola Sturgeon.

The resources available to the service will increase by 20 per cent at peak periods due to the surge in emergency calls – most of them alcohol related – as Christmas and Hogmanay parties get into full swing.

The Scottish Ambulance service also has an emergency ambulance fleet which includes 150 vehicles that are either 4x4s or fitted with automatic snow chains and others are fitted with winter tyres.

Ms Sturgeon, said: “Last year’s winter was one of the most severe ever seen in Scotland so it is important that we are well prepared for the festive period to help keep our NHS moving.”

Pauline Howie, chief executive, Scottish Ambulance Service, said: “Our staff work tirelessly to respond to people in need, whatever the weather conditions.

“Our 4x4 capacity is greater than any previous year and detailed operational plans are in place to cope with adverse weather, which worked well during the recent storms.

“We would ask people to drink sensibly and wrap up for the weather.”