THE keys to seven new ambulances were handed over at a ceremony yesterday.

The Mercedes ambulances, which are powered by 2.7 turbo-diesel engines and cost £63,000 each, are to be given to stations throughout Teesside to replace old stock.

Peter Summerfield, group station officer, based in Middlesbrough, was presented with the keys by staff at Rycroft Mercedes, Stockton.

He said: "They have got rear lowering suspension and the whole of the back end goes down making life easier for the crew and more comfortable for the patient.

"We are absolutely over the moon with them."

It has not yet been decided which stations will receive the vehicles.