IN response to Mr Usherwood's letter regarding the Yorkshire Air Ambulance (April 9), I would like to clarify certain points that he makes.

The North Yorkshire police do not have a helicopter or fixed wing aircraft. If we have a specific need for air support we approach our neighbouring forces for assistance. The comment in relation to the Chief Constable is therefore clearly not relevant.

The North Yorkshire police actively support the Great North Air Ambulance and I have been involved in the past trying to raise funds through Hambleton Community Safety Partnership.

The Air Ambulance is an excellent service and the debate about how it is funded is perfectly valid. However, combining this with a "cheap shot" at the Chief Constable is inappropriate.

Chief Supt Tim Madgwick,

Central Area Commander,

North Yorkshire police,

Fulford Road,

York.

Updated: 10:58 Tuesday, April 13, 2004