Mechanic Robert Townsend applies national identification markings for emergency vehicles to Royal Berkshire Ambulance trust's fleet. In future, all paramedic ambulances will carry the'battenburg' markings, designed by the police scientific development branch in the wake of Home Office moves to promote an 'instantly recognisable' identity for all emergency vehicles.

Trust chief executive Keith Nuttall said the new markings would 'provide greater safety' for staff and patients in a 'hazardous environment'.