London's Air Ambulance to fly longer summer hours

For the first time in its history London's Air Ambulance will fly longer hours during the summer.

Until 2 September it will be able to deliver its advanced trauma team to critically injured people in London via helicopter every day until sunset.

At its peak the helicopter can be used until 21.21 whereas previously, due to aviation resources, the service had to stop flying at 18.45 each day.

The team is also hoping to acquire a second helicopter to provide cover when the current aircraft is out of service for maintenance.

They estimate this will allow the service to reach up to an estimated 400 patients per year by air.