A new £7 million coastguard search and rescue helicopter centre has been opened at Prestwick Airport.

The new facility was opened by UK Transport Minister Robert Goodwill on 17 December.

The centre is the latest stage of the £1.9 billion ten-year contract awarded to Bristow in 2013.

UK Aviation Minister Robert Goodwill said: "The new Prestwick Search and Rescue base will provide a vital emergency rescue service at sea, in coastal areas and inland throughout Scotland and the UK."

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Earlier in the day, Robert Goodwill flew into Glasgow Airport where he met Amanda McMillan, Managing Director of Glasgow Airport, and Leader of Glasgow City Council Frank McAveety to talk about plans for a brand new rail link, jointly funded by the UK and Scottish governments.

The business case for 2 possible schemes, one a tram-train line, the other a light rail system, were approved at the Glasgow and Clyde Valley cabinet meeting on Tuesday, 15 December.

The link would be funded through the £1.13 billion Glasgow and Clyde Valley City Deal fund, which received £500 million from the UK government.

It is understood the 2 schemes could be up and running by 2025.

(LM/MH)