A Conservative candidate is seeking reassurances from Oxfordshire Health Authority that Chipping Norton ambulance station will not close.

David Cameron, who is standing for election in the Witney constituency, said: "I understand the health authority and the Oxfordshire Ambulance NHS Trust are carrying out a review of ambulance stations in Oxfordshire.

"Local Conservatives are seeking a guarantee that Chipping Norton station will be kept open.

"It provides an essential service for people in the town and surrounding villages.

"It takes between 16 to 25 minutes for an ambulance to reach Chipping Norton from Banbury and up to 30 minutes from Witney.

"The consequences of rationalising stations could be devastating for rural areas.

"The review of stations was brought to my attention by concerned residents who are worried about the level of service that they will receive in future."

The chairman of the Oxfordshire Health Authority, Fred Hucker, said: "I understand the Oxfordshire Ambulance Service Trust Board has agreed to commence a five-year estates strategy programme to ensure we have modern up-to-date facilities.

"At such an early stage no decisions about anything have been taken.

"All discussions are taking place openly with full staff consultation."