New electric powered ambulance will become a familiar sight around Bolton thanks to a major NHS investment plan.

Across the country, the NHS has invested £2.1m in a new fleet of vehicles like these in an effort to cut its carbon footprint.

The North West Ambulance Service, which covers Bolton and the rest of Greater Manchester, has now been equipped with three zero-emission vehicles, made up of two rapid response vehicles and a mental health ambulance.

North West Greener NHS senior responsible officer, Dr Andrew Furber, said: “I’m delighted that we are able to support with this trial and that the three North West Ambulance Service electric vehicles are already making a difference on the streets in the north west, helping our patients while at the same time helping towards our net zero target.”

The mental health ambulance is intended to provide mental health responses in communities around the North West.

It is designed to cut emergency response times for people with mental health needs and help reduce demand on traditional double-crewed ambulances.

NHS England director for community care James Cook said “These new vehicles are an important addition to our emergency fleet and will change the way we deliver care in the community, helping us see more patients whilst reducing demand on traditional double crewed ambulances.

“All while helping the NHS meet its broader green ambitions.”