Wiltshire County Council leader Jane Scott has written to ambulance boss Tim Lynch demanding an explanation about the future of the air ambulance.

Her letter to the Great Western Ambulance Service trust chief executive came after the Gazette launched its campaign last week to save the air ambulance.

Her letter said: "I am writing to request information from you regarding the future of the Wiltshire Air Ambulance following concerns raised by elected members at the meeting of the County Council last week, 13May.

County Councillors have been aware of reports in the local press over a number of months which have alluded to threats to the continuation of the dedicated air ambulance for Wiltshire. We recognise that press coverage may not be entirely accurate, but we are also conscious that there is often no smoke without fire.

I have also had reports, from county councillors who sit on the Police Authority, that policeofficers have raised concerns about the future of the shared service and the implications forthe police emergency response if the air ambulance element is withdrawn.

I note that the Trust is planning to review the clinical model for the service, however I am concerned that the wider implications should also be taken into account, particularly as a large partof the funding for the air ambulance comes from charitable donations and the public.

I am anxious to see that discussions about future air ambulance services are held openly and thatthe process for making decisions is transparent, and I would appreciate your assurance that this will be the case.

The County Council has actively supported the Wiltshire Air Ambulance Fund and will continue to do so on behalf of the people of Wiltshire for whom this is a most valuable and respected service."