Ambulance manufacturer enlists to support Ukrainian war effort

Emergency vehicle manufacturer, Venari Group, has begun producing an undisclosed number of military grade ambulances which will be imminently deployed to Ukraine.

The Ukrainian Embassy in London contacted Venari’s CEO, Oliver North, who is shortlisted for a Norhern Leadership Award, through Goole MP Andrew Percy last week.

Following an assessment, the manufacturer was instructed to start work on 25 March at its bases in Goole and Brighouse.

The ambulances are being built on former British army vehicles. These are now being comprehensively stripped, overhauled, modernised and converted into ambulances by Venari’s team.

With all-terrain capability, they will allow increased manoeuvrability for both paramedics and patients and allow medical personnel to treat people who they may not otherwise be able to reach. Armoured variants will provide protection from small arms fire on the frontline to allow safer extractions.

North said: “When we got the call, we jumped into action immediately. As the UK’s oldest and largest ambulance builder, we truly feel that it is our duty to deliver on this project, with as much passion, precision, and speed as we possibly can.

“Andrew Percy has been an integral part of the project, and wholeheartedly shares our sense of obligation to drive the project for the inspirational people of Ukraine. Our team have been relentless and tireless in their efforts, knowing each vehicle completion will play a part in saving lives.

“Although many of us are subsequently spending little or no time at home at the moment, we’re well aware our sacrifices don’t even come close to those made by the Ukrainian people.”

Percy added: “My role has been to connect all the parties and work to secure the funding for this project and that work continues as we want to send as many ambulances to Ukraine as possible.

“I cannot praise Oliver and the workers at Venari enough for their incredible efforts, working through the night to get this project up and running.

“Their efforts have been amazing and they should all be very proud of what they are doing to keep medical professionals and patients in Ukraine safe.”