The managing partner of Belfast firm Tughans met Northern Ireland’s new air ambulance as it touched down near the Titanic Centre.

Patrick Brown welcomed the air ambulance’s first “flying visit” alongside Tughans corporate partner James Donnelly and Air Ambulance Northern Ireland Trustee Ray Foran.

Tughans played a key role in establishing Air Ambulance Northern Ireland, which will service the region with an air ambulance.

Key business figures were invited to attend the event to discuss opportunities for getting involved with and supporting the charity.

Mr Brown said: “This is a significant step towards providing a potentially life-saving service for Northern Ireland and we have been pleased to work with and support the Trustees on a pro bono basis, offering both professional advice and legal expertise in ensuring charitable status for the organisation.

“Tughans regularly engage in pro-bono work as part of our corporate social responsibility programme, as we have a strong commitment to support the community in which we work. Air ambulances have been responsible for saving countless lives in the UK and this important service has now been secured for Northern Ireland.”

Mr Foran added: “We are grateful to Tughans for their generous professional support. The business community have a very important role to play in the charity and we look forward to engaging with them over the coming months.”

Earlier this year, Air Ambulance Northern Ireland successfully gained charitable status. The Trustees of the charity have begun consulting with business, community and sporting organisations.