OPERATORS of one of the region's air ambulance services will test demand for a second helicopter this weekend.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance's existing helicopter, which is called out an average of 15 times a week, is based at Leeds/Bradford Airport.

However, this weekend it will be at Croft motor racing circuit, near Darlington, providing cover for the British Superbike Championships.

To ensure that the rest of Yorkshire has cover during the three-day event, sponsor B Braun Medical, of Sheffield, has agreed to cover the cost of a second, more modern, helicopter.

Martin Eede, Yorkshire Air Ambulance chief executive, said: "B Braun has very kindly agreed to meet the cost of leasing a second helicopter for the weekend, which will provide cover for the south of the county.

"It will also give us an chance to evaluate a new generation helicopter, and to look at what demand there might be for having a second aircraft based in South Yorkshire on a permanent basis."

Hans Hux, B Braun chief executive, said: "The air ambulance is a vital, lifesaving service for people across this region. The paramedics and crew do a remarkable job and we are delighted to support such a worthwhile service."

The healthcare company has recently announced a five-year sponsorship deal with the Yorkshire Air Ambulance.