THE ambulance service that covers Herefordshire has won a top health business award.

At an awards ceremony in London, West Midlands Ambulance Service was recognised as the Ambulance Trust of the Year after being shortlisted in the category.

WMAS was also shortlisted for an Outstanding Achievement in Healthcare Award for its highly regarded Regional Trauma Network Response.

Midlands Air Ambulance Charity was also in the running for Air Ambulance of the Year.

The Trust is consistently one of the highest performing ambulance trusts in England and over the past twelve months has delivered its ‘Make Ready’ programme, recruited more than 300 new paramedics and stepped in to successfully manage the NHS 111 service for the majority of the West Midland region.

WMAS chief executive, Dr Anthony Marsh, said: “I am delighted the trust has been recognised with this top award. This accolade reflects the exceptional work undertaken by everyone in the Trust as they consistently strive to be professional in their delivery of excellent patient care.

"I am delighted to receive the award and I would like to thank all our staff for making it possible.”