AMBULANCES in Hampshire are being fitted with special 'snow socks' to make sure they can reach patients during the expected cold snap.

South Central Ambulance service has also bought a number of 4x4 vehicles to ensure there is no repeat of difficulties from last winter.

The service admitted that a number of ambulances previously had trouble reaching patients due to being unprepared for the cold weather.

John Dyer, from the service, said: "Obviously last winter was a very trying time for us but we have used the months since then to really improve our preparedness.

"There were two problems last year, getting around was very difficult and also slips, trips and falls that generated a lot of calls from the public.

"We've looked at traction devices for ambulances and purchased a large amount of snow socks which can be put on tyres quickly for traction and removed when the conditions are better.

"We looked at snow tyres for the fleet but ambulances have to be taken off the road to get them fitted and again when they are removed."

The new additions have been paid for after the service put aside a special cold weather fund to help prepare for snow and cold conditions.