A FIRST aid charity has ordered a third specialist ambulance to help move overweight patients across the country.St John Ambulance Suffolk hit the headlines last year when it announced it had designed a second vehicle dedicated to transport “bariatric patients” to and from hospital.

A FIRST aid charity has ordered a third specialist ambulance to help move overweight patients across the country.

St John Ambulance Suffolk hit the headlines last year when it announced it had designed a second vehicle dedicated to transport “bariatric patients” to and from hospital.

The ambulance has been in such high demand that the charity has now submitted an order for an extra one to join its fleet.

It will be the third to be owned by St John Ambulance Suffolk and will be built at Papworth, ready to transport patients by early 2007.

Keith Hotchkiss transport services co-ordinator, said: “Bariatric patients are those regarded as particularly overweight. They have historically presented a problem for services required to transport them.

“By creating a specific style of ambulance, we have been able to ensure a more dignified transportation for such individuals.

“Whether they need to get to or from hospital for a routine appointment of for emergency reasons, our ability to assist has been greatly appreciated - by the patients and also by the trusts which call on us.”

Each ambulance costs in the region of £55,000 and includes additions and alterations from the more standard model like reinforced flooring, specialist winch and upgraded brakes.