THE chairman of Lancashire Ambulance Service has paid a tribute to staff.

Ruth Winterbottom, who also offered festive wishes to the public, said: "I am very pleased to have this opportunity to wish everyone a healthy Christmas and a peaceful New Year.

"The events in New York on September 11 this year provided a graphic reminder of the harrowing type of work emergency service staff are expected to deal with, often putting their own lives at risk to help others.

"At this time of year when most of us are celebrating with friends and family, my thoughts go out to our ambulance men and women who will be working over the festive season.