More than 500 new ambulances are to be deployed across England in a bid to cut response times.

The vehicles are will replace old ambulances across England.

The double crew ambulances are equipped with modern safety technology, to improve protection for patients and staff while supporting paramedics to deliver urgent care more effectively.

The new ambulances have already reduced breakdown rates and time spent out of service.

Health and Social Care Secretary, Wes Streeting, said: "In an emergency, every minute matters. When someone dials 999, they should get help fast - not be left waiting because of creaking kit or preventable delays.

"These new ambulances are already helping to cut response times and keep more vehicles on the road, just as the NHS is facing a tidal wave of flu and the ongoing disruption of strikes.

"I want to thank NHS staff for their extraordinary dedication this winter. They are going above and beyond for patients, often in incredibly tough conditions, and this government is backing them with the modern equipment they need to do their jobs safely and effectively.

"Modernising our ambulance fleet means better care for patients and stronger emergency services - while backing British jobs and driving economic growth."

NHS National Director for Urgent and Emergency Care, Sarah Jane Marsh, said: "Modern, well-equipped and reliable ambulances are a vital part of emergency care and allow staff to respond quickly and safely when patients need them most.

"This new fleet of ambulances are a crucial link between providing patient care whether at home, in transit or at an emergency department and are a real boost at a time when staff are working incredibly hard and emergency care is under considerable pressure."