EMERGENCY ambulances in Herefordshire will continue to work throughout the fuel crisis.

But outpatient services run by Hereford and Worcester Ambulance Trust have been drastically curtailed.

Only cancer patients, those needing dialysis and others with special conditions will be provided with transport.

"We apologise for this but unfortunately we have no alternative,'' said spokesman Steve McGuinness.

Between 80 to 100 voluntary drivers provide the service, using their own cars and filling up with their own fuel. Like everyone else they have been caught up in the petrol, diesel famine.

All eight emergency 999 vehicles in Herefordshire will stay in service, drawing fuel from local garages with reserve supplies.