THE North West Air Ambulance has received a helping hand to keep its life-saving service in the air.

Highways Agency traffic officer and keen oil painter, Dave Taylor, volunteered his artistic services after seeing first hand the work that the air ambulance does, and was happy to design this year’s official Christmas card.

Mr Taylor said: “As traffic officers, we help manage the impact of serious incidents on the motorway network and often work closely with the North West Air Ambulance Charity to ensure that their helicopter has a safe area to land.

“We also see first hand the impact of their work which cuts vital minutes off the journey to hospital and gives patients a better chance of survival.”

Lynda Brislin, chief executive at North West Air Ambulance Charity said: “We are so grateful to the Highways Agency for their continued support and help with this year’s Christmas card appeal.

“We love Dave’s card and can’t wait to send it out to all our supporters and volunteers.”