A PARALYMPIC wheelchair tennis player has pledged to support the work of the county's air ambulance after she was named an ambassador.

Louise Hunt, who represented Paralympics GB at the London and Rio games in 2012 and 2016 respectively, recently visted the airbase in Semington to meet pilots, paramedics, doctors and the charity team and wants to share why the team is vital to people all over Wiltshire.

Louise, from Wanborough, was born with a disability called Spina Bifida, which is a developmental congenital disorder, meaning she has been in a wheelchair her whole life,  but achieved a lifelong goal of representing her country.

Wiltshire Times: New ambassador Louise Hunt is pictured alongside trainee critical care paramedic Emma Thompson, critical care paramedic Sophie Holt and chief pilot Matt Wilcock. New ambassador Louise Hunt is pictured alongside trainee critical care paramedic Emma Thompson, critical care paramedic Sophie Holt and chief pilot Matt Wilcock.

The 30-year-old said: “I am honoured and proud to be an ambassador for Wiltshire Air Ambulance.

“When I learnt more about the real-life stories and how many lives the crews have saved it made me feel passionate about supporting the charity in any way I can.”

She added: “I’m excited about what’s ahead and encourage people to donate and support such an incredible organisation which one day could save their own or a loved one’s life.”

Barbara Gray, director of income generation and communications at Wiltshire Air Ambulance, said: “It’s great to have Louise supporting our charity and we’d like to thank her for becoming a Charity Ambassador.”