Paramedics resort to pedal power

The cycling paramedics will respond to all types of emergency calls

Paramedics on bicycles are being introduced in three seaside resorts in an effort to speed up response times.

The trials in Brighton, East Sussex, and Canterbury and Whitstable, in Kent, will enable them to respond to patients previously inaccessible by vehicle.

An ambulance will be sent if the patient needs transporting to hospital.

The bikes have been kitted out with the necessary life-saving medical equipment - which includes a defibrillator carried on the paramedic's back.

South East Coast Ambulance Service said they would respond to all types of emergency calls within specific target areas.

Acting clinical team leader, Dave Marshall, said the three areas always had a large influx of visitors during the summer months.

"We believe these bikes will prove to be a positive addition to our fleet in terms of responding quickly and appropriately to patients."