It cost millions of pounds to build and boasts complex hi-tech flying equipment - but the East Anglian Air Ambulance's brand new helicopter has been grounded following a collision with a bird.

The charity's H-145 aircraft, known as Anglia One which was officially unveiled at a grand ceremony last month. But it is now being repaired following the 'bird strike'.

According to a spokesman for the charity, the helicopter crew were returning from an incident in Essex when the aircraft experienced a 'bird strike'.

No patients were on board at the time and the crew, all of whom were unhurt, were able to return to Norwich Airport safely where they made a priority landing.

The helicopter needed maintenance but bosses hope it will be ready to fly after this weekend.

A replacement aircraft (similar to the former Anglia One helicopter) was provided by Bond Air within 24 hours.

The spokesman added: 'Our two experienced pilots handled the situation calmly and in accordance with guidelines and procedures.

'We are also operational with the rapid response car.'

Bird strikes have not often affected the air ambulance, but they are not uncommon within the industry, according to the spokesman.

•Have you got a story about the air ambulance? Email nicholas.carding@archant.co.uk