Slough-based MediForce Ltd operates a 30-strong fleet of Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Renault Master ambulances, alongside Land Rover Freelander and Volvo XC70 rapid response vehicles.

Some of its biggest clients include racecourses such as Cheltenham, Epsom Downs, Huntingdon, Kempton Park and Sandown Park, where the British Horseracing Authority requires that ambulances are present during all race meetings.  The critical nature of this service means MediForce risk financial penalties if vehicles suffer downtime on-site – making it essential to have a service provider which can respond to tyre failures at a moment's notice. @PREVIEWEND@

In addition to its sporting contracts, MediForce also support the NHS in a frontline role, helping NHS Ambulance Trusts meet 999 response targets during peak periods.

David Hibbert, Operations director at MediForce, said: 'Punctures are part of life for any fleet, but in our line of business these delays can have serious consequences.

'We don't operate under standard parameters; we're on-duty 24/7 and need a service provider to match. Knowing ATS Euromaster's rapid response team is just a phone call away – no matter what time it is or where we are – was a major factor in this agreement,' he added.

MediForce took the decision to appoint ATS Euromaster after its fleet management records identified the time taken to source and replace damaged tyres as the principal cause of vehicle downtime – particularly when ambulances were operating further afield or outside of normal business hours.

Under the new arrangement, MediForce's vehicles now benefit from the same tyre policy as many of the largest public sector ambulance fleets in the UK.  This sees a mixture of premium brand Michelin, Pirelli and Continental tyres fitted by ATS Euromaster, replacing a previous agreement with a local tyre dealer.

ATS Euromaster will also undertake proactive tyre maintenance, including regular tyre safety inspections and wheel alignment checks to ensure that the fleet's tyres are always in excellent condition.

Hibbert added: 'When the NHS calls asking for our support, it can often be at short or no notice, which reinforces the importance of having our vehicles ready and operational at all times.'