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A new chief executive has been appointed for the successor to MAGPAS, the regional emergency medical service, recently relaunched as Helimedix 24/7.

David Philpott, who was a founding chairman of the Association of Air Ambulances, is to be the new boss of the service. The announcement was made today by charity chairman Michael Black on behalf of the staff and trustees.

Mr Philpott, 52, has over 30 years’ experience in a career which has spanned local government, the National Health Service, broadcast media, event and conference management, international development work and leadership as a chief executive in the fields of medicine and aviation.

He has recently moved to Huntingdon, but also maintains a home in Kent where he is chairman of the Institute of Directors.

Mr Philpott was recently recruited by the Appointments Commission to become the chairman of the Wiltshire Air Ambulance Appeal, a joint NHS and police air ambulance service

On behalf of the Trustees, Mr Black welcomed Mr Philpott and said: “Magpas is very fortunate in having David join our team. In the coming months and years we expect to see radical changes, and improvements, in 'on the scene' emergency care.

"Magpas has been championing these developments for many years and we are delighted that they are now being embraced by the NHS.

"Magpas will have to adapt and change in the coming months and we are delighted that we will be able to use David's expertise and experience to lead us through these challenging times."

Mr Philpott said: “I am acutely aware of how well regarded Magpas is by the thousands of people who have funded its vital service over the past four decades.

"My priorities will be to ensure that successful fund raising continues and accelerates in these times of austerity, while at the same time, working with our clinicians and partner organisations, to ensure that we provide a first rate integrated but independent emergency medical service.”