A unique St. John Ambulance vehicle will double up as transportation for wheelchair-bound seniors who would otherwise be confined to their homes.

The new $127,000 ambulance — specially-built and said to be the only one of its kind in the world — has enough room to lock in three wheelchairs as well as all the usual St. John first aid equipment. Once enough drivers have been assigned to the project, people with mobility difficulties will be able to ring the charity and be taken to the place of their choice for a small fee.

Wheelchairs can be raised to the vehicle by a lift, the driver will have access to a TV screen so he can keep an eye on passengers in the back, while they will also be able to communicate via an intercom system.

“There’s an awful lot of seniors physically not able to get about, especially if they’re on four wheels,” said St. John executive director Jacqueline Browne.

“We felt we might be able to work not only for emergency services but also to support our seniors who have limited physical capabilities. It’s amazing what a difference it can make to them to get out and about even if it’s just for an hour’s drive.

The ambulance can also be used to take people with physical difficulties to and from the airport.

“We had to replace one of our ambulances because it was dying, so this was designed with the community in mind. The manufacturers say it’s the only one of its kind in the world.”

The ambulance was bought by American International Group, which said it wanted to give something back to the community in Bermuda.

“We were very fortunate that AIG came forward,” said Ms Browne.

Organisers have already contacted a number of groups about the scheme, including Age Concern.

Governor Sir John Vereker and his wife Lady Vereker had a look at the new ambulance at an official unveiling yesterday.

Two fund-raising tag days will take place on Friday and Saturday, with the first tag handed to the Governor yesterday to mark the initiative. It will be the last time Sir John performs the St. John tag role before he leaves Bermuda later this year to be replaced by Sir Richard Gozney.

St. John Day will be celebrated at a service at St. John’s Church on Sunday.