A former army officer from north Norfolk is returning to the frontline.

Sir William Cubitt, who lives near North Walsham, has been appointed chairman of the East Anglian Air Ambulance (EAAA).

He has had a distinguished career in the army, most recently serving as Major General Commanding the Household Division.

Sir William replaces Andrew Egerton-Smith, who served the Charity for over 15 years, and stepped down in December 2015.

Sir William, who is also president of the Norfolk Royal British Legion, said: 'I consider it a great privilege to be appointed Chairman of the East Anglian Air Ambulance. It is a charity that could be needed by anyone at any time and therefore generates much support from the people of East Anglia.'

Sir William was commissioned into the Coldstream Guards in 1977, later transferring to the Irish Guards. In 1999, he served in the Former Republic of Yugoslavia, and was appointed OBE for his services during the Kosovo War. In 2004, he served in Northern Ireland, and was appointed CBE for his services.

He was promoted to Major General and appointed Major General Commanding the Household Division; in 2007, he was made General Officer Commanding London District. Sir William retired from the Army in 2011, and was later invested by The Queen as a Knight Commander of the Royal Victorian Order.

The East Anglian Air Ambulance, which operates two dedicated air ambulances, provides a lifesaving service every day of the year. It is a local charity, funded by the people of East Anglia.

The charity works in partnership with the East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust (EEAST), and this year its fundraising target is £10.2 million.

EAAA Chief Executive, Patrick Peal said: 'I'm really delighted that the trustees have appointed Sir William as our new chairman. I very much look forward to working with him to develop the life-saving work of this charity.'