TRAINEE paramedics in Bolton are the first ambulance people in Greater Manchester to be issued with the emergency service's new-look uniform.

All ambulance crews in the region are replacing the old style blue and white uniform, which was introduced back in 1948, with a modern green and yellow design.

The new uniform, which includes cargo-style trousers with pockets where equipment can be stored, is similar to that now favoured by many of the country's ambulance crews and seen on medical dramas such as Holby City.

The changeover from the old uniform to the new will be phased in over the next two financial years because it will cost so much - £400 for each ambulance staff member.

Eight student paramedics, currently being trained at Ladybridge Hall and due to become fully operational in October, are already modelling the new uniforms.

Bury, central Manchester, Stockport, Rochdale and Wigan will be the first areas where the new uniforms will be issued.

GMAS Chief Executive John Burnside said: "We have wanted to do this for some time and are delighted the staff have come up with such an excellent design. The new uniform will help distinguish our crews from other emergency services and will ultimately be of benefit to everyone who receives our help in Greater Manchester."

GMAS says the new outfits have been adopted after careful consultation with staff and will bring clear benefits, including making ambulance crews easier to distinguish from other emergency services.

The uniform consists of green short-sleeved shirts bearing the ambulance service crest and NHS logo and green cargo-style pants.

GMAS Operational Manager Judy Finch led the new uniform project.

She said: "We have trialled a number of uniforms over the years, but we are now sure the one selected by staff is the best. It is a modern, well-fitting, functional uniform and all the early reports from staff are extremely favourable."

GMAS is currently notifying all other emergency services as well as hospitals and other healthcare organisations of the changes ahead.

Other Bolton ambulance crews will have to wait longer for the new uniforms.

UNIFORM LOOK: Student paramedics model the new look at Ladybridge Hall