The Duke of Cambridge is to become a helicopter pilot with East Anglian Air Ambulance, it was announced today.

After completing a period of training this autumn and winter, Prince William will start work with the air ambulance, based at Cambridge and Norwich Airports and flying both day and night shifts, in spring 2015.

The duke will start as a co-pilot but, after a period of training, will be qualified to fly as a helicopter commander.

This job will be the duke’s main job, but he will also be expected to continue taking on duties and responsibilities on behalf of the Queen, both in the UK and overseas.

In common with all other East Anglian Air Ambulance pilots, The Duke will be formally employed by Bond Air Services. He will draw a salary which he will donate in full to charity.

The Duke will begin training for his Air Transport Pilot’s Licence in September, which is estimated to take a minimum of five months to complete.

The job will build on William’s experience in the Royal Air Force search and rescue force, which he completed in September 2013. During this time he undertook more than 150 search and rescue operations.

Mr Andrew Egerton Smith MBE, chairman of East Anglian Air Ambulance, said: “Having the Duke of Cambridge as one of our pilots is marvellous news as he brings much experience to the charity after his successful career as a search and rescue pilot. “We have an outstanding track record of attending people in their hour of need which is recognised and generously supported by our local communities.”