AMBULANCE service chiefs have dismissed claims that ambulance cover in Ceredigion was facing a “significant shortfall” over a four-day period.

It had been claimed that Ceredigion was one of four areas alongside Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire and Neath Port Talbot, that was facing problems in having adequate ambulance cover between 21 and 24 January.

Ceredigion AM Elin Jones had raised concerns and demanded that Welsh Health Minister Mark Drakeford take acti­on to ensure there was suitable ambulance cover in Ceredigion.

However, the Welsh Ambulance Service said the information was “outdated”.

A spokesperson said: “It is unfortunate that outdated information about the anticipated level of ambulance cover in west Wales has made its way into the public domain and has given rise to unwarranted concern­.

“Resourcing is a dynamic process and we would like to reassure the public that ambulance cover across west Wales was at safe levels this weekend.”

Speaking after raising her concerns with Mr Drakeford, Ms Jones said: “These are very concerning reports. If reports are true then they could leave communities with close to non-existent ambulance cover.

“The potential consequences of this for a seriously ill patient are unthinkable.

“I have contacted the Minister asking for urgent clarification.

“If the reports are true, then he needs to act immediately.”