PENDLESIDE Hospice's new £30,000 ambulance will be launched on Wednesdaywhen its first passenger will exit the vehicle in a rather unusual way.

Four times Superbike World Champion Carl Fogarty has agreed to take part in the unveiling of the ambulance by driving out of the back of it on a Ducati 916, provided for the day by Prestons Garage of Colne.

After months of fundraising, the Hospice managed to raise the £30,000 needed for the purchase and conversion of the vehicle which will be on view to the public, on Wednesday, outside Marsden Building Society, in St James Street, Burnley.

Marsden and the Mayoress of Burnley Charity Fund 1999-2000 have both sponsored the ambulance.

Other contributions to the appeal were made by Colne and Nelson Round Table, Temple Street Recreation Centre and Silentnight Beds, who are all recognised on a plaque inside the ambulance.

The converted Vauxhall Movano has a wheelchair system which ensures the patients can be safely and easily transported in comfort. It will be modified on the day to allow Carl to ride out of the back.

The retired superbike champion will meet fans and sign autographs after the launch, which will take place at 4pm.