Hopes of starting an air ambulance service in Wales should take-off on Tuesday.

So far, only �5,500 has been raised towards the running costs of the service.

But it is hoped that a public appeal will be launched within weeks, and that the money will then roll in.

The AA has agreed to sponsor an air ambulance for Wales over three years, which will pay for the leasing costs of the helicopter.

But public money is needed to pay towards the running costs.

Up to �200,000 is required in the first year alone, but just a few thousand pounds has been raised so far.

Lottery plan

The board of the Welsh Ambulance Trust is due to give the green light for the appointment of a fundraising supremo.

Once he or she is in place a public appeal will be launched within a matter of weeks.

The Cornwall Air Ambulance charity has offered some help and the trust is also in the process of establishing a lottery to raise funds.

It is then hoped the service could take to the skies in the early part of next year.