Paramedics called to people injured or taken ill in Colchester town centre should now be able to get there more quickly.

A unique arrangement between Essex Ambulance Service and Essex Police allows their rescue cars and motorbikes to be parked in a secure car park at the back of the police station.

The system is the first of its kind in the country and has been introduced to improve response times to calls. Local ambulance stations are at Stanway and Greenstead, three miles from the town centre.

Chief Supt Dave Murthwaite, divisional police commander for Colchester, said: "This is a good example of a practical partnership, which will benefit the public."

Published Thursday, March 14, 2002