IN the past I have been known to protest loudly over the fact that while the police have their helicopters paid for out of the rates, ambulance helicopters are funded out of charity.

I have also raised this question in the pages of the aviation press and am now persuaded that ambulance helicopters are better funded out of charity for the following very cogent reasons: 1. The money contributed for an air ambulance is for that purpose and no other branch of the health service can touch it.

2. The air ambulance has total freedom to operate independently of external constraints.

3. Every task is undertaken with input from the pilot, paramedic and doctor, which optimises patient care, while maintaining the safety of all.

4. There is no necessity to meet targets, cut corners, or constantly strive to save money.

5. With the NHS up to its neck in debt, it does not need a vivid imagination to see what would happen; other branches of the NHS would be eyeing helicopter(s) whilst sharpening a large axe.

The Kent Air Ambulance operates an MD902 (the same type that is used in Yorkshire). In 2005, the cost for all aspects of flight was £1.6 million. In total, 939 missions were flown, clocking up 382 hours and 512 patient contacts. That is about £3,000 per patient, but this is only about £1 per head of the population of Kent.

So now you know where to take that ghastly sweater/shirt you got for Christmas!

Finally, I will continue to oppose the use of helicopters by the police.

Mike Usherwood, Mendip Close, Huntington, York.