The new head of an ambulance service has targeted three key areas in his bid to improve it.

Anthony Marsh will assume the role of chief executive of the East of England Ambulance Service Trust (EEAST) on January 1, replacing current head Andrew Morgan, after concerns were raised over the service’s performance.

Dr Marsh started his career in the ambulance service 27 years ago in Essex in a role now known as ambulance technician.

He told the Guardian: “I am very pleased to be given the opportunity to help the service improve.

“I have a proven track record with improving ambulance services and the NHS Trust believe I can assist.”

Dr Marsh highlighted three key areas he will prioritise - increased training for staff, increased recruitment of paramedics and improvement in the standard of ambulances and equipment.

He said: “Staff have come to me with concerns about the level of support they receive.

“It is vital that front line staff have the training they require. It is there at that moment but it is not adequate across the board.

“Paramedics take two-and-a-half years to train so that is a priority and I am aiming to have no ambulances over five years old.”

The public sector workers' union, UNISON, has raised concerns over Dr Marsh only working four days a week at the EEAST, and the fifth day in his current job as head of the West Midlands Ambulance Service.

But Dr Marsh said: “People should judge me on my output, not how many minutes I am working here.

“I think the most important aspect of the job is the leadership I show.”