WORK has begun on a new helicopter that will be flying over Hampshire soon, saving lives.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance has started branding and conversion work on its new enhanced Eurocopter 135, which will officially fly into action in June.

While this one gets ready, another Eurocopter 135 will step into action but will look different, carrying just the logo of the charity.

Tony Nicholson, chairman of the charity, said: “We are very happy to have been able to arrange this with our partner, Bond Air Services.

“Everything that helps our crews to deliver this vital service has to be good news.”