New helipad promises major health boost on Mull

Image source, The HELP Appeal/Iain Erskine

Image caption, The helipad is located near to Mull and Iona Community Hospital

A new helipad has opened on Mull providing emergency access for air ambulances and coastguard helicopters.

Construction on the landing site, adjacent to the Mull and Iona Community Hospital, began in May last year.

The land for the project was donated to the local community, with the full 拢418,000 cost covered by the Helicopter Emergency Landing Pads (Help) appeal.

The charity has funded helipads at both the Western Isles and Raigmore hospitals, as well as at a site near Applecross.

Image source, The HELP Appeal/Iain Erskine

Image caption, Land for the site has been donated by Andy and Naomi Knight

A further landing site is to open on Gigha next week.

Senior charge nurse on Mull, Cheryl-Ann Paterson, said the helipad would make a huge difference to the health outcomes for patients on the island.