VINTAGE ambulances and emergency vehicles turned out in force for the annual International Ambulance Rally in Chippenham.

The Wiltshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust hosted the weekend rally at its headquarters in Malmesbury Road, with exhibitors from all over Europe.

Hundreds of visitors poured into the site to see displays of vintage vehicles equipped with the supplies of the period.

Other attractions included side shows, the Bristol Pipe Band, paramedic displays, and the Solent Eagles motorcycle display team.

A major simulated rescue in the main arena involved firefighters, ambulance crews, paramedics and the Wiltshire Air Ambulance showing how the services work together in the event of a serious car accident or incident.

Two ambulance crews had travelled from Holland and one from Germany to attend the event, as well and enthusiasts from all over the UK.

A bring and buy stall raised money for the Wiltshire Air Ambulance appeal and a balloon race was launched.

"The vintage vehicles are furnished out with all the right kit for the period down to the bandages and splints," said organiser Carol Paget.

"There were stalls where enthusiasts could trade ambulance stuff."

The event culminated in a light and sound show, which involved all the vehicles lining up to flash their lights and sound their sirens in a spectacular display. "The whole event went really well," said Ms Paget. "Altogether about 1,000 people attended over the two days."