Essex Air Ambulance Trust has introduced new fast response cars to provide trauma care when its helicopters are unable to fly.

Unlike helicopters, the new cars will be available both day and night and are not weather dependent, improving the resilience of the service.

The Vauxhall Insignia VXRs carry a doctor, paramedic, full life-saving equipment and drugs exactly like the helicopters and will be based at North Weald and Earls Colne.

Dr Adam Chesters, Clinical Research and Training Lead at the Trust, said: “We are excited to be able to use this extended service as we continue to train new Doctors and Paramedics as part of a national training initiative for pre-hospital medical care.”