A RED Cross ambulance will patrol the streets of Redbridge in a unique partnership with police.

The fully crewed ambulance will be in the borough on Friday and Saturday nights for the next three months to assist exclusively with police matters.

As part of their remit, the ambulance crew will assist police officers dealing with casualties and provide transport to hospital.

The ambulance is being supplied free by the British Red Cross and will be staffed by volunteers.

Redbridge Police will contribute £25 per shift to cover the cost of diesel plus any bandages and dressings used.

Redbridge Borough Commander, Det Chief Supt Sue Williams said: "We can all see the full potential of this pilot and the advantages working with the voluntary sector would bring to the community."

The scheme has the backing of the London Ambulance Service.