Rebecca Selkirk

Yorkshire Receives an Early Christmas Gift as YAA Welcomes New Helicopter to its Fleet

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Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) is delighted to announce the arrival of its third, brand-new, H145 D3 helicopter, G-YAIR, just in time for Christmas. Following a meticulous medical fit-out at Airbus Helicopters in Oxford, G-YAIR made its maiden flight into Yorkshire on December 19th, marking an exciting new chapter for the charity.

This latest addition to the fleet will join YAA’s existing aircrafts, G-YAAA and G-YORX, forming part of a rotational system that will ensure the charity remains operationally resilient. This vital addition will provide a no-notice replacement during scheduled maintenance, unexpected repairs, and mandatory crew training. By eliminating the need for leased aircraft during these periods, G-YAIR will enable YAA to maintain seamless lifesaving coverage across the region, ensuring operational availability remains as close to 100% as possible.

Steve Waudby, Director of Aviation at Yorkshire Air Ambulance, said, “The addition of G-YAIR to our fleet is a pivotal moment for Yorkshire Air Ambulance, significantly enhancing our ability to maintain uninterrupted emergency response coverage. This investment represents our unwavering commitment to providing the highest level of care to the people of Yorkshire, ensuring we are always ready to respond when needed”.

The H145 D3 helicopter is one of the most advanced models of its kind, boasting innovative features designed to enhance efficiency and patient care. These include a five-bladed main rotor that significantly reduces vibrations, ensuring a smoother ride for patients and crew alike, while integrated onboard Wi-Fi and secure communication systems allow patient data to be transmitted to hospitals in real time, enabling hospital teams to prepare for patients’ arrival before they land, saving precious time in critical situations.

Inside the cabin, the medical crew benefits from a modern wheeled stretcher system, making patient loading and unloading faster and easier. This system reduces the need for manual lifting, improving both efficiency and safety during missions.

As an independent charity, Yorkshire Air Ambulance relies entirely on the generosity of the public to keep its vital service running. The arrival of G-YAIR strengthens the charity’s ability to provide uninterrupted, emergency care to the 5 million people living in Yorkshire and its visitors.

Abby Barmby, Director of Marketing & Communications at Yorkshire Air Ambulance, said, “The addition of G-YAIR to our fleet is a powerful reminder of the vital role we play in saving lives across the region. This achievement would not be possible without the steadfast support of our generous donors, fundraisers, and partners. Their continued commitment ensures that we can invest in state-of-the-art resources, like this new helicopter, and maintain the highest level of pre-hospital critical care. As we look toward 2025, we are excited to see the positive impact of our enhanced fleet and continue our mission to provide lifesaving treatment to the people of Yorkshire”.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance Aims to Raise Over £20,000 in a Week to Fund Vital Crew Kit

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Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) is proud to announce its participation in this year’s Big Give Christmas Challenge, calling on supporters to help raise £20,420 in just one week. As part of the charities ‘Equipped to Respond, Ready to Save’ campaign, the funds raised will go towards replacing aging flight suits and helmets—vital protective equipment that keeps YAA’s lifesaving crew safe on every mission.

To reach this goal, YAA supporters must raise £10,210 during the campaign week, which runs from midday on Tuesday, 3rd December, until midday on Tuesday, 10th December. Every pound donated during this period will be matched by champion funder Candis and pledge funder Beadlam Tractor Run, effectively doubling the impact of every donation. Once the target is reached, they will each generously contribute £5,104, unlocking a total of £20,420 and making every contribution, critical to the campaign’s success.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s medical and aviation crew rely on specialised flight suits and helmets to perform their lifesaving work safely and effectively. These high-performance uniforms are designed to meet strict aviation and medical standards, providing vital protection both in the air and on the ground. As the demands of their work take a toll on this essential kit, replacing aging equipment is critical to maintaining the safety and efficiency of YAA’s operations. Without this protective gear, the charity’s ability to respond and deliver exceptional care to patients across the region would be compromised.

Additionally, helmets are particularly vital for the team, as they are fitted with mounts for night vision goggles (NVGs), which are essential for safely operating YAA’s fleet of helicopters in low-light conditions or during night missions. Without NVGs, YAA’s critical care team would be unable to fly after dark, limiting the services operational hours.

Garry Brasher, one of YAA’s longest-serving pilots, emphasised the importance of this campaign, he said, “Our flight suits and helmets are more than just uniforms – they’re essential tools that protect us and allow us to perform our roles effectively. From the tough conditions we face on the ground to the complex demands of flying in Yorkshire’s varied landscapes, this kit is vital to keeping our team safe. The advanced equipment not only supports our daily operations but also aligns with our vision of creating a Centre of Clinical Excellence, ensuring we meet Civil Aviation Authority requirements. Replacing aging equipment is an ongoing priority, and we’re incredibly grateful for the generosity of those who support campaigns like The Big Give to help make this possible.”

Yorkshire Air Ambulance is participating in The Big Give for the second consecutive year. In 2023, the charity successfully raised £19,000, covering the charities then daily operational costs. As an independent charity, YAA relies entirely on the generosity and support of people across Yorkshire to fund its vital service, ensuring that the crew can continue to deliver lifesaving care to those in need.

Kerry Dwyer, Director of Public Fundraising at Yorkshire Air Ambulance, expressed her sincere thanks to all supporters ahead of the campaign. She said, “The flight suits and helmets we are raising funds for are vital to our crew’s safety and ability to perform lifesaving missions across Yorkshire. Thanks to our generous match funders, every pound donated during The Big Give will be doubled – turning a £10 donation into a £20 contribution, without any extra cost to the donor.

On behalf of everyone at YAA, I extend heartfelt thanks to everyone who is able to donate to our Big Give campaign. Whether big or small, every contribution will make a significant impact and without your support, reaching our target would not be possible”.

To learn more about The Big Give or to make a donation, please click here and help YAA reach its goal before midday on Tuesday, 10th December, to help keep the crew ready to save lives in the year ahead.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance Called to Harrogate Rider’s Close Call After Being Crushed by Horse

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The latest episode of Yorkshire Air 999, airing on Quest this Friday, November 29th at 9 PM, follows the Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) team as they rush to Windmill Farm in Beckwithshaw, near Harrogate, to assist an experienced equestrian who suffered serious injuries after being crushed beneath a horse he was training when it reared and fell on top of him.

Joe Billingham, 34, was exercising a horse named, Lolli, in an outdoor riding arena when she unexpectedly reared. Attempting to calm her, Joe used a gentle vocal cue to guide her back into schooling. However, Lolly reared again, losing her balance and falling backwards, crushing Joe in the process. The impact left him in excruciating pain, unable to move or feel his legs, and struggling to breathe. Concerned witnesses quickly called 999, fearing the severity of his injuries.

Local paramedics, first to arrive at the scene, requested backup from the Yorkshire Air Ambulance to access the advanced pain relief options and expertise provided by the YAA team. Already airborne and returning to their RAF Topcliffe base after completing a nearby mission, the YAA crew swiftly diverted to the incident, landing safely in a field adjacent to the paddock, ensuring all horses were secured to prevent any further incidents.

Terri-Ann explained, “Horse-related incidents can cause a range of injuries, from broken bones to serious crush injuries. Helicopters can unsettle unpredictable animals like horses, so It’s vital we approach these situations carefully, making sure they’re safely put away before we land”.

Upon arrival, YAA paramedics Leanne and Terri-Ann joined the land paramedics. Initial assessments revealed that Joe couldn’t move from the waist down and was experiencing numbness and tingling in his legs, prompting serious concerns among the medical team. Leanne explained, “He couldn’t move his legs and was describing symptoms that immediately raised red flags for a spinal injury”.

The team administered a high dose of morphine to alleviate Joe’s severe pain and decided to move him from the cold ground to the privacy and warmth of the land ambulance for further assessment. Using a Kendrick Extrication Device (KED), they carefully immobilised Joe, ensuring his back remained straight and his neck stable during the transfer. Leanne explained, “The KED allowed us to safely move him without causing further damage or increasing his discomfort”.

Once inside the ambulance, Joe’s condition improved slightly, and he was able to move his toes, offering a hopeful sign amidst the worrying situation. Following on-scene care, the YAA crew worked with local paramedics to arrange his transfer by land ambulance to Leeds General Infirmary for further scans and treatment.

At the hospital, X-rays revealed that Joe had not suffered a spinal fracture, but he had broken eight ribs in the fall. He spent three days in the hospital recovering from his injuries and is continuing his rehabilitation at home.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Joe said, “As a horse rider, you never think these things will happen to you. I’ve ridden horses for three decades, but it all happened so quickly. I can’t thank the Yorkshire Air Ambulance team enough for the incredible care they gave me that day—they made a frightening experience so much more manageable”.

Speaking about equestrian-related incidents, Terri-Ann highlighted the risks involved. “There’s a lot of protective gear that horse riders wear, but if they aren’t wearing it, the injuries can be much worse when they fall. Thankfully, Joe was wearing his safety gear, which likely prevented even more serious injuries. We’re so pleased to learn he’s making a good recovery”.

The episode also follows the YAA team as they respond to a range of emergencies, including an elderly woman that had fallen from steep ladders in her garden, a cyclist that came off his bike on a country road breaking 14 bones including his neck and a 12-year-old boy that fell from a motorcross bike requiring emergency surgery for his leg.

Teen’s Leg Saved by Yorkshire Air Ambulance Medics After Serious Bike Accident in Grimethorpe

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Reegan Dickinson, a 12-year-old from Grimethorpe, will feature in the upcoming episode of Yorkshire Air 999, airing on Quest on Friday, November 29th, at 9 PM. The episode showcases the rapid response of Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s (YAA) critical care team after Reegan was involved in a serious cross-bike accident.

Reegan had been riding with friends on a wet and muddy field near his home when he lost control of his bike as the front wheel skidded into a small ditch. Thrown from the bike, he sustained a serious open fracture to his lower right leg. His father, who was nearby at the time, rushed to his side to comfort him while they waited for help to arrive.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s Nostell-based critical care team, including paramedic Tom Chatwyn and technical crew member Alex Clark, were quickly dispatched to the scene. Explaining the seriousness of Reegan’s injury, Tom said “An open fracture is not just a break to the bone; it’s also a break to the skin, which risks infection, nerve damage, and significant blood loss. This can quickly become life-threatening if not treated urgently”.

Upon arrival, the team was relieved to find that Reegan had been wearing a helmet, minimising the risk of head injury. With his dad by his side for support, Reegan was assessed, and initial pain relief was administered via gas and air. However, the fracture required urgent treatment at the scene to reduce the risk of further complications.

To manage the intense pain of straightening his leg, the team administered ketamine, a powerful analgesic. Reegan’s dad played a crucial role in keeping him calm, sharing happy memories to distract him as the medication took effect. Once relaxed, Tom expertly straightened the leg, applied bandages to control the bleeding, before applying a vacuum splint to reduce further pain and movement.

Reegan was carefully loaded into the helicopter and flown to Leeds General Infirmary (LGI), a major trauma centre, where a team of specialists were ready to perform surgery and repair his leg with a metal implant.

Throughout the ordeal, Reegan showed remarkable spirit, even jokingly nicknaming the YAA crew “Mr Orange” and “Mr Blue” after their distinctive uniforms. Tom said, “Despite the seriousness of the situation, Reegan’s humour and bravery brought positivity to a challenging job.”

Reegan began his recovery journey, which included intensive physiotherapy. Looking back on the accident, Reegan said, “The ground was so wet, and my bike just flipped when the wheel got stuck in a ditch. I’ve spent weeks playing video games while recovering, but I can’t wait to get back to riding—on a new bike! I even got to visit the Nostell air base with my family and see Tom again. My leg was still in its cage, but it was great to catch up and talk about everything that happened that day!”

The episode also follows the YAA team as they respond to a range of emergencies, including an elderly woman that had fallen from steep ladders in her garden, a cyclist that came off his bike on a country road breaking 14 bones including his neck and a serious equestrian accident.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance Announces Plans for New Northern Air Support Unit

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Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) is delighted to announce the first steps toward developing a new Northern Air Support Unit, marking a significant milestone in the Charity’s mission to provide critical care to the people of Yorkshire.

Following years of searching for a suitable site, YAA has agreed to purchase land on the outskirts of Skipton on Swale, just 3.5 miles from its current operations at RAF Topcliffe.

The new base will be purpose-built to reflect the exceptional facilities already established at YAA’s Nostell Air Support Unit near Wakefield. The proposed development will create a dedicated, long-term base for the northern region, providing stability for the Charity’s lifesaving operations and ensuring it is equipped to respond to emergencies efficiently.

For over a decade, YAA has operated as a tenant at RAF Topcliffe, benefiting from the invaluable support of the Royal Air Force, the British Army’s 4th Regiment Royal Artillery, and the local community. While this relationship has been pivotal in enabling YAA to deliver its critical service, the Charity’s vision for a purpose-built base reflects its commitment to advancing its capabilities and ensuring its crews can operate at the highest level in the years ahead.

Mike Harrop, Chairman of Yorkshire Air Ambulance, said, “We are delighted to take this important step in securing the future of our lifesaving service. The development of a permanent Northern Air Support Unit will provide us with a stable, purpose-built base to conduct our missions and highlights the progress we’ve made as a Charity over the years. While this project is still in its early stages, it represents our commitment to providing the very best resources for our crews and patients across Yorkshire. The opportunity to design, build, and own this air support unit will enable the Charity to focus on delivering value for money and exceptional critical care to the people of Yorkshire, while maintaining our central presence in North Yorkshire—minimising response times and ensuring we can be there for those who need us most.”

The Skipton on Swale site is a strategic location for Yorkshire Air Ambulance, enabling its critical care team to continue providing rapid response to patients across Yorkshire. Whether attending cardiac arrests, road traffic collisions, sporting injuries, or equestrian accidents, the Charity’s ability to reach any part of the region within 20 minutes remains vital to saving lives.

With the planning application submission imminent, YAA have been engaging locally with Skipton on Swale Parish Council, North Yorkshire County Council, and other local stakeholders. While the project remains in its infancy, Yorkshire Air Ambulance is committed to keeping the public informed of its progress.

Mike Harrop added, “This project marks an exciting new chapter for Yorkshire Air Ambulance, which would not be possible without the generous fundraising and ongoing support from our loyal supporters and the wider community, whose contributions are vital to sustaining our lifesaving work.”

Yorkshire Air Ambulance operates a fleet of advanced Airbus H145 helicopters, serving a population of five million people across four million acres. The Charity relies entirely on the generosity of its supporters, with every mission funded by public donations.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance Rushes to Schoolboy After Serious Cricket Injury in Settle

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The latest episode of Yorkshire Air 999, airing on Quest this Friday, November 22nd at 9 PM, follows the Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) team as they respond to a 14-year-old schoolboy, in July, whose PE lesson took a painful turn after a freak accident during a cricket match in Settle, North Yorkshire. 

Archie Goddard, a Year 9 student from Skipton, was fielding during a PE lesson when he lunged to catch a fast-moving ball. Instead, the ball struck his knee, causing a severe lateral dislocation that left him in excruciating pain and unable to move. Concerned about possible vascular compromise – a serious condition where blood flow is restricted to the injured area – YAA’s critical care team, located at RAF Topcliffe in Thirsk were dispatched to the incident.

YAA’s helicopter landed directly on the school field just 14 minutes later, where the team found Archie lying on the ground covered in coats for warmth, with his worried mum by his side. Paramedic Sam Berridge assessed Archie’s injuries, noting the severity of the dislocation. He said, “His knee was severely dislocated, almost appearing like it was pushing against the skin and causing Archie a lot of pain, it was critical we acted quickly to minimise any lasting damage”.

Sam administered gas and air to help ease Archie’s discomfort before skilfully guiding the dislocated kneecap back into place. Sam explained, “Relocating a kneecap requires a balance of realigning the joint while supporting the kneecap to avoid causing further damage. It’s not difficult, but it can be extremely painful, so it was important to keep him calm and comfortable.”

Despite the procedure being painful, the relief was almost instant. Archie, who had been in visible distress, was soon smiling and chatting, and wanting to stand up, showing a remarkable turnaround.

Despite Archie’s improvement, Sam took precautions to prevent any movement that could cause further damage to his kneecap, nerves, or tendons, which could become trapped following the relocation procedure. To ensure stability, Archie’s leg was immobilised in a vacuum splint before arrangements were made for a local land ambulance, to transport him to Airedale General Hospital for further scans.

X-rays at the hospital confirmed that the procedure at the scene was a success and that there was no additional damage, with doctors advising Archie to rest for a few weeks. Now fully recovered, Archie is back to his normal activities, including playing cricket and going to the gym.

Reflecting on the job, Sam said, “It’s rare in our line of work to see such an immediate turnaround in a patient’s condition. The second the knee popped back into place, Archie was like a different person—pain-free and ready to get back to his life”.

Grateful for YAA’s assistance, Archie said, “I’m so thankful for the team arriving when they did. I’d been lying there for ages, and Sam helped me right away. It all happened so fast – I just remember looking down and my knee was completely out of place. Once the gas and air it kicked in everything just went white and once my knee popped back into place, the pain was completely gone! I just wanted to get back up on my feet. The recovery passed by so quickly, now I don’t even remember which knee it was!”.

The episode also follows the YAA team as they respond to a range of emergencies, including a serious motorbike accident, a 2-year-old who had fallen 12 feet from a window, and an elderly diabetic gentleman who became lost on a walk near the Yorkshire Coast, sparking a major rescue mission.

Police Officer Survives Horrific Motorbike Crash with Life-Saving Help from Yorkshire Air Ambulance

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Ben Ashe, a 30-year-old Police Officer from North Yorkshire, will feature in the upcoming episode of Yorkshire Air 999, airing on Quest on Friday, November 22nd at 9 PM. The episode showcases the rapid response of Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s (YAA) team after Ben suffers serious injuries in a high-impact motorcycle collision on a winding country lane in Hampsthwaite, Nidderdale.  

Ben was just 0.4 miles into a bike ride after work with a friend when his journey took a devastating turn. While navigating a narrow 60mph lane, he collided with a car, the force of which threw him over 15 metres from his bike, catapulting him from his bike, hitting his head on a dry-stone wall of a residential garden.

A concerned Dutch couple, on holiday in the UK and staying at the property, overheard the accident occur, along with Ben’s friend and fellow biker, quickly called emergency services, staying by his side. Initially unconscious on impact, when Ben regained consciousness, he explained how he felt dizzy and was sick in his helmet, alarming 999 call takers who feared he could have a serious head injury.

YAA’s critical care paramedics, Sam and Becky, were dispatched to the scene, flying 28 miles from their RAF Topcliffe air base in Thirsk. They arrived prepared for the range of serious injuries often seen in motorcyclists, who are 50 times more likely to be killed in accidents compared to car drivers. While on route, Sam explained, “For someone with life-threatening symptoms like this, a head injury of this nature, is at the top of our priority list”.

Upon arrival, a land ambulance crew already at the scene and were conducting a primary assessment of Ben’s injuries, who was now conscious, but disoriented, struggling to breathe, and experiencing severe pain in his shoulder, hip, and neck.

Ben’s protective riding gear, including a helmet, leathers, gloves, and a back protector, was vital in reducing the severity of his injuries. Sam said, “We attend a huge number of motorcycle accidents, and there’s a vast difference between people who wear protective clothing and those who don’t. In this case, it definitely reduced the injuries Ben would have had”.

Carefully transferring Ben onto a stretcher, they moved him into the land ambulance, where they could provide further care in a more private environment. The team administered advanced treatments, including morphine for pain relief and tranexamic acid (TXA) to help stem potential internal bleeding caused by the impact of the collision.

Once in the ambulance, paramedics were relieved to see Ben’s Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) improve, indicating he had become more alert and responsive compared to his initial assessment.

The YAA team coordinated with the land ambulance crew to transfer Ben to the nearest major trauma centre, Leeds General Infirmary, by road for further care. This also allowed the YAA helicopter to remain on standby for any other potential life-threatening emergencies.

At the hospital, scans revealed Ben suffered a broken shoulder, a dislocation of his first right rib, damage to his right AC joint, and a partially collapsed lung, alongside significant bruising.

Ben spent three nights in hospital before returning home on crutches and is now recovering with regular physiotherapy sessions. Reflecting on the incident, he said, “I’m incredibly thankful to everyone who helped me that day—from the YAA team to the ambulance crews, and the doctors and nurses at LGI. The speed and professionalism with which they all responded truly made a difference and gave me the best chance at recovery”. Ben continued, “I can’t stress enough how important protective gear is. If I hadn’t been wearing mine, the injuries could have been much worse, or even fatal. It saved my life, and I’d urge every motorcyclist to wear the proper gear”.

Yorkshire Air 999 continues to offer a unique insight into the vital work of Yorkshire Air Ambulance, highlighting the critical role the service plays in saving lives across the region. The episode also follows the YAA team as they respond to other emergencies, including a schoolboy who suffers a dislocated knee during a cricket match, an elderly diabetic gentleman who is lost while walking along Yorkshires coast, prompting a major rescue mission and a 2-year-old baby that had fallen 12 feet from a window.

76-Year-Old Climber Rescued by YAA After Severe Abseiling Fall at Slipstone Crags

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Stephen Foxley, a seasoned climber from North Yorkshire, will feature in the upcoming episode of Yorkshire Air 999, Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s (YAA) new series airing on Quest this Friday, November 15th at 9 PM. The episode highlights the vital work of YAA’s emergency response team as they assist Steve after a devastating fall while abseiling in the Yorkshire Dales, which left him with serious injuries, including fractures to his spine, shoulder, and six ribs on his left side.

Steve, then 75, had been enjoying a day of climbing at Slipstone Crags with his wife when the accident occurred. As he abseiled down a steep crag, he lost his footing, causing him to flip upside down in his harness. Left hanging on the rope and struggling to breathe, Steve eventually managed to continue his abseil to the ground. His wife immediately called 999, fearing he had struck his back against the rockface during the fall.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s team, flying from their base at RAF Topcliffe in Thirsk, were quickly dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, YAA’s pilot faced a challenging landing due to the rocky terrain bordering the moorland.

Once safely on the ground, YAA paramedics Becky and Steve faced a steep and hazardous descent to reach Steve, guided by local mountain rescue team who had arrived shortly before. Becky said, “He had fallen from quite a height, and access was extremely difficult. We had to carry heavy medical kits down a steep and dangerous path, making it clear that we couldn’t take him back up the same way”.

The initial assessment conducted by the mountain rescue team indicated that Steve had sustained severe injuries, including potential rib fractures, spinal injuries, and heel pain. Medics were also concerned about tenderness over his spleen, suggesting potential internal injuries. YAA paramedics immediately initiated pain management, administering a high dose of morphine to alleviate Steve’s severe discomfort.

Becky explained the difficulties involved in treating a patient of Steve’s age in such a remote environment, she said, “From 65 onwards, we tend to see much more severe injuries as bones become more fragile and the body’s resilience decreases. Even when using the correct safety gear, the impact forces during a fall can cause significant damage.”

Working closely together, YAA and Mountain Rescue secured Steve in a vacuum mattress and used specialist hoisting equipment to carefully lift him up the crag face. The complex manoeuvre required precision and coordination, with mountain rescuers, paramedics, and even YAA’s pilot and technical crew member all pitching in to safely transport him to the top without causing further injury.

Once at the top, the YAA team conducted a secondary assessment before loading Steve into the helicopter for a rapid transfer to Leeds General Infirmary, where he spent 8 days being treated for his injuries, with doctors originally anticipating a year long recovery.

Steve has since made a remarkable recovery and has already returned to climbing after just 4 months thanks to intensive physiotherapy. Expressing his gratitude for the emergency teams, Steve said, “I am so thankful to everyone who helped me, the YAA team were fantastic – they managed my pain, kept me calm and got me to the hospital quickly. Additionally, the mountain rescue team were essential; without them, I don’t know how they would have gotten me off the crag.”

The episode will also follow YAA’s crew as they respond to other emergencies, including a teenager from Harrogate who suffered an open leg fracture from a skateboard fall, a woman injured while walking the Coast to Coast route, and a young motorcyclist involved in a serious accident on his way home from school.

Teenage Motorbike Rider Shows Incredible Resilience Following Crash with Lorry in North Yorkshire

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George Gill, a 16-year-old student from North Yorkshire, will feature in the upcoming episode of Yorkshire Air 999, airing on Quest on Friday, November 15th at 9 PM. The episode showcases the rapid response of Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s (YAA) team after George was involved in a serious collision with a lorry while riding his motorbike home from completing one of his GCSE exams.

George had been on his motorbike in Kirkbymoorside when he lost control on a patch of freshly laid gravel, colliding with a heavy goods vehicle (HGV). The impact threw him from his bike into the middle of the road, leaving him drifting in and out of consciousness. YAA’s critical care paramedics, Terri-Ann and Max, were dispatched to the scene, prepared for the range of potential injuries often seen in motorbike incidents, which account for a significant 20% of road fatalities in the UK despite making up less than 1% of road traffic.

George had been on his motorbike in Kirkbymoorside when he lost control on a patch of freshly laid gravel, colliding with a heavy goods vehicle (HGV). The impact threw him from his bike into the middle of the road, leaving him drifting in and out of consciousness. YAA’s critical care paramedics, Terri-Ann and Max, were dispatched to the scene, prepared for the range of potential injuries often seen in motorbike incidents, which account for a significant 20% of road fatalities in the UK despite making up less than 1% of road traffic.

Terri-Ann said, “When we attend motorbike incidents, we prepare for a range of injuries, from minor grazes to life-threatening trauma. Seeing George unconscious at the scene was a major red flag for us, alongside his obvious facial injuries and a broken arm, which suggested a serious impact despite his helmet and protective clothing”.

An A&E nurse who happened to be nearby at the time of the accident had already begun a primary assessment of George before YAA’s arrival. Despite the severity of the crash, George’s calm demeanour stood out to the crew.

“George was incredibly stoic given his injuries,” added Terri-Ann. “He kept insisting he was fine, even though his elbow was visibly broken. He refused pain relief, showing remarkable bravery for someone so young”. 

After assessing the situation, the YAA crew coordinated with a local land ambulance team to transfer George to York Hospital for further care. Speaking about the decision, Max commented, “George’s injuries were well-managed by the land ambulance, which allowed us to remain available for any potential life-threatening emergencies that might arise”.

George underwent surgery for the broken arm and spent several weeks recovering. Despite the setback, he has since fully recovered and is now back to enjoying his passion for riding, albeit with a more cautious approach.

Reflecting on the incident, George said, “I was slowing down for the junction but didn’t realise there was fresh gravel on the road, and my bike just slid out. It was a bad crash. At the hospital, they took an X-ray and scheduled me for surgery a few days later. Honestly, I was more upset about my bike—I remember seeing it and thinking, ‘You’ve got to be kidding me!’”.

He continued, “I’m definitely more cautious on my bike now. After something like that, I think it’s only natural to become a more careful rider”.

Yorkshire Air 999 continues to offer a unique insight into the vital work of Yorkshire Air Ambulance, highlighting the critical role the service plays in saving lives across the region. The episode also follows the YAA team as they respond to other emergencies, including a child in Harrogate with an open leg fracture from a skateboard fall, a woman injured while walking the Coast-to-Coast route with friends, and a climber who suffered a significant fall from a steep crag in North Yorkshire.

Resilient Young Goalkeeper Defies Odds Following Van Collision Near South Yorkshire Home

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Oliver Watson, a budding young Goalkeeper from Royston, near Barnsley, is set to be featured in the next episode of Yorkshire Air 999, Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s (YAA) new series premiering on Quest on Friday, November 8th at 9 PM. The episode showcases the critical role of YAA’s emergency response team as they assist Oliver following a serious incident in which he was struck by a van while riding his scooter to fetch his friend’s forgotten football boots, resulting in severe bilateral wrist fractures.

In May, Oliver, 12, was playing football with friends when he decided to use his scooter to grab his friend’s boots. Tragically, as he crossed the road, he was struck by a van whose view was obstructed. The impact threw him approximately ten metres into the air, rendering him unconscious upon landing.

Local paramedics quickly arrived on the scene and requested the assistance of Yorkshire Air Ambulance. Given the close proximity of YAA’s Nostell Air Base, Paramedic Sam Berridge responded in the charity’s rapid response vehicle as a precaution.

Upon arrival, Oliver was conscious and in considerable pain, but he had not yet regained full awareness. Sam quickly assessed his condition and administered intranasal ketamine for fast acting pain relief while conducting a primary survey. Recognising the need for additional support, he requested assistance from the YAA team, who were just a short 4-minute flight away with access to a greater range of drugs.

In the back of the road ambulance, Oliver was given gas and air to help alleviate his discomfort. Taking advantage of the moment, Dr. Driver chatted to him about football while carefully wrapping splints around his injured wrists, providing a welcome distraction. Despite his injuries, Oliver was concerned about others involved in the accident, asking about the van driver and showing remarkable compassion for someone so young.

The team worked to establish an intravenous line for further pain management, but faced challenges as the cold weather, had caused Oliver’s veins to constrict. To maintain effective pain relief, they continued administering medication intranasally, though this method only provides short-term relief. Once stable, they transported Oliver to Sheffield Children’s Hospital, where a full paediatric trauma team was ready to take over his care.

During the journey to the hospital, Dr. Driver located a vein in Oliver’s foot, allowing him to administer longer-lasting intravenous pain relief, ensuring he remained comfortable for the remainder of the transfer.

Reflecting on the incident, Oliver shared, “Right before it happened, I saw something out of the corner of my eye and put my hand up in front of my head since I wasn’t wearing a helmet. I feel lucky to have gotten away with just two broken wrists.”

After a recovery period of twelve weeks, he is back to doing what he loves most—playing football. “I couldn’t shower, eat, or write by myself, which was really tough. But the hardest part was not being able to kick a ball. Luckily the accident happened at the end of the season, giving me time to heal. Now I am back, and it feels amazing to be in the goal, saving shots again!”

The episode also follows the YAA team as they respond to various emergencies, including a serious motorbike accident, a farmer crushed by his quadbike, and a 65-year-old woman who fell on the rocks at the Strid in Bolton Abbey.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance Aids Young Teen During Life-Threatening Asthma Attack in Remote Dales

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The Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) played a critical role in saving the life of 13-year-old Phoebe Milford, who suffered a severe asthma attack during a family walk in the Yorkshire Dales. This remarkable rescue will be featured in the first episode of the new series, Yorkshire Air 999, airing Fridays at 9 pm on Quest.

Following the success of Helicopter ER, which ran for 9 seasons, Yorkshire Air 999 features a fresh format that dives into the lives of Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s cutting-edge medical team, their courageous patients, and the unique landscape and spirit of Yorkshire itself.

In April 2024, Phoebe was out for a walk with her mother, Rose, and her brother. They had just paused for lunch when Phoebe began to struggle with her breathing. Having not used her inhaler or experienced an asthma attack for a year and a half, the sudden onset of symptoms alarmed the family.

When YAA received the emergency call, Phoebe was situated on a hillside high above Keld, one of the smallest and most isolated villages in Yorkshire. The nearest land ambulance was over 62 minutes away, while the YAA’s critical care team were able to arrive the scene within 20 minutes, covering the 34-mile journey from their Topcliffe air base in Thirsk.

Paramedics Sam Berridge and Sammy Wills joined a Mountain Rescue team to assist Phoebe, who was feeling extremely unwell and nearing the point of fainting. The team used a nebulizer with a mask and oxygen to help control Phoebe’s breathlessness while Sammy comforted her during this distressing time. Sam noted, “With asthma attacks, the airways reduce in size, becoming swollen. While patients can get air in, they struggle to get it out. A nebulizer relaxes the smooth muscle of the airway, helping to open things up a bit to ease breathing.”

Phoebe’s mother, Rose, recounted the panic of the situation, she said, “I didn’t know what to do; I was running up and down the hills trying to get a signal, but I didn’t have any. I saw someone at the bottom of the path, and I charged down the hill, he must have thought I was mad! The man had an app that could contact the emergency services and pinpoint exactly where we were, even without signal – so that’s how we managed to call for help.”

Once Phoebe’s breathing was under control, the YAA team prescribed additional asthma medication similar to her inhaler, which she had left at home. They also administered a steroid to assist with her breathing. “She was feeling really unwell, and her body was working hard to stay conscious”, Sammy explained. “Asthma can be very serious, even fatal at times, but thankfully not today”.

After stabilising her condition, the YAA team transported Phoebe by air to the nearest road where a land ambulance crew were waiting. Following a thorough check of her vitals, Phoebe was then taken to Darlington Memorial Hospital for further treatment.

Reflecting on the fortunate circumstances of the day, Sam commented, “I think Phoebe’s stars aligned that day. If one part of the puzzle hadn’t worked out—had we landed further away, if mountain rescue hadn’t been called, or if that person walking past hadn’t been able to send the location to emergency services—it could have been a very different story. There was no other way off that hill.”

Since the incident, Phoebe is feeling much better, experiencing only slight wheeziness from time to time. Phoebe said, “I’m so grateful for the help I received. It was a scary experience, but thanks to the Yorkshire Air Ambulance team, I’m okay now and ready to get back to my walks”.

The episode airing on Friday, 1st November, will also follow the YAA team as they respond to other emergencies such as: a climber who fell 30 feet on the Yorkshire Three Peaks, a man in Harrogate with near-severed fingers, and a serious equestrian accident in a remote 100 acre field in North Yorkshire.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance Responds to Harrogate Man After Devastating Accident Leaves Fingers Severed

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Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s quick response to a devastating lawn mower accident takes centre stage in the first episode of Yorkshire Air 999, a new TV series airing Fridays at 9 pm on Quest. Following the success of Helicopter ER, which ran for 9 seasons, this new series provides a fresh look at YAA’s cutting-edge medical team, their courageous patients, and the unique landscapes and communities across Yorkshire.

In April 2024, Chris Gill, 48, from Harrogate, was out helping a friend with some gardening when a simple task turned into a serious accident. While clearing grass from the blades of a lawn mower, Chris’s hand became entangled, leaving three fingers nearly severed and hanging by only a thin piece of skin.

Despite the intense pain and severity of his injuries, Chris managed to stay in good spirits, showing remarkable resilience and positivity throughout the ordeal.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s Critical Care Team, including Paramedics Sam Berridge and Matty McCabe, responded swiftly from YAA’s Topcliffe base, reaching Chris within nine minutes. Due to the rural setting, the team had to land the helicopter a quarter of a mile from the scene, and then proceed on foot before joining a land ambulance crew already on site.

Reflecting on the critical nature of Chris’s injury, Sam said, “When you hear about fingers caught in machinery, the goal is to manage pain immediately and maintain blood supply to improve the chances of reattachment. Time is critical in cases like Chris’s, as prolonged lack of blood flow can mean tissue damage, affecting surgical success later.”

YAA’s critical care team was essential to this incident, bringing advanced medications and procedures not available to land crews, including stronger pain relief options and specialist techniques for managing complex injuries. These capabilities allow the team to provide rapid, targeted treatment to significantly reduce Chris’s pain and protected the viability of his severely damaged fingers, improving his chances of successful surgical repair.

On assessing Chris’s injuries, the team administered a “ring block” injecting a local anaesthetic called lidocaine to numb his fingers and relieve his intense pain, allowing the team to safely stabilise his hand. Sam explained, “Each finger has four nerves—two at the top and two at the bottom. The ring block allows us to numb the area by targeting these nerves, effectively stopping the pain signals from reaching the brain.” The ring block took effect immediately, with Chris feeling far calmer and more comfortable after the procedure.

Due to the risk of infection from soil and dirt on his hands, Chris was also given antibiotics before being transferred by land ambulance to Leeds General Infirmary. He later underwent a complex four-and-a-half-hour surgery, during which surgeons carefully reattached his fingers using four pins in his middle finger and one in his index finger.

As a plasterer by trade, Chris expressed relief and gratitude for the care he received, stating, “I need my fingers for my work, so I’m incredibly thankful to the Yorkshire Air Ambulance team. Their support and expertise really made a difference that day. While I face a long recovery and weekly physiotherapy, I’m hopeful about regaining full use of my hand. My fingers are still swollen and sore but keeping them is something I’ll never take for granted. I feel very lucky they were there when I needed them most.”

Chris’s story will air on Friday, 1st November, will also follow the YAA team as they respond to other emergencies such as: a climber who fell 30 feet on the Yorkshire Three Peaks, a serious equestrian accident and a 13-year-old girl facing a life-threatening asthma attack in the remote Dales.