A PURPOSE-built LandRover ambulance destined for central Africa has been donated to a Tavistock charity.
The all-terrain vehicle was a gift from St John Ambulance and members of Tavistock Community Church collected it from Lytham St Annes last week.
The LandRover 110 series will eventually be sent to a new hospital in Uganda, loaded with medical equipment, as part of the Great Lakes (Africa) Mission (GLAM).
Project co-ordinator Derek Perry said: 'This is Christmas come early for us.
'We're eternally grateful to St John's for letting us have this vehicle, which could save lives in Africa.'
The offer from St John came after GLAM sent out e-mails and letters to organisations nationwide, asking for help with funding for ambulances.
Tavistock Community Church now needs to raise £7,000 to pay for a 40-foot container to transport the ambulance and much needed medical supplies to the hospital in Fort Portal Town. They are also hoping to equip the vehicle with a good selection of mechanics' tools, spare parts, tyres and a winch.
Derek said: 'The council have agreed to let us display the ambulance in Bedford Square on September 23 and 24, and again on December 17 and 18.
'This will be a great opportunity for us to tell people all about the project, and hopefully raise some money from donations.'
He hoped the ambulance could be displayed at various other venues in the area. 'We also need someone who can take a look at the electrics for us,' he added.
For more information on the Great Lakes (Africa) Mission, or to offer help with any aspect of the charity's work, Derek can be contacted on 01822 834465. A website can be found at http://www.kingsnews.org.uk">www.kingsnews.org.uk