Rebecca Selkirk

Leading provider of professional home removal services, David Duggleby Movers and Storers, based in Scarborough, have pledged to donate £2.50 from every removal they complete throughout 2023 to the rapid emergency service charity, Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance is a lifesaving rapid response charity, serving over five and a half million adults and children and spanning over three million acres of Yorkshire. It currently costs £19,000 a day to keep Yorkshire’s air ambulances fleet of helicopters maintained and operational. As an independent charity, Yorkshire Air Ambulance relies on the generosity of individuals and organisations to operate and help save lives across Yorkshire.

This charitable partnership comes on the heels of a significant expansion for David Duggleby Movers and Storers. In August 2022, the Duggleby Group acquired Kidds of Yorkshire and Sandersons of Boston Spa, effectively broadening their reach and services across the Yorkshire region. Building upon a track record of over 500 moves completed last year, the introduction of a larger fleet and manpower through Kidds and Sandersons joining the team is expected to bolster their capabilities further, aiming to increase the number of moves significantly in the coming year, ultimately translating into more donations to Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

Speaking of the partnership, Managing Director, William Duggleby, said, ‘When we thought about giving back to the local community, we wanted to support a charity that served the local areas of all the teams in our offices and facilities across Yorkshire.

 Choosing Yorkshire Air Ambulance was an easy decision. Not only do they do amazing work to provide life-saving care in all our communities across the region, but the service they provide is something that no one else can. We couldn’t think of a better cause to support, and we’re delighted to be working with them’.

As a testament to their commitment to supporting the emergency response charity, the two auctioneers’ brands, David Duggleby and Duggleby Stephenson, have jointly hosted a stand at the Ryedale Show this year. As part of this event, the companies ran a charity auction, raising £1,040 which will be donated to Yorkshire Air Ambulance in support of their collaboration with the Movers and Storers brands.

Regional Fundraising Manager for North & East, Linda Stead, conveyed her heartfelt appreciation for the partnership, highlighting the pivotal role community support plays in upholding the charity’s critical life-saving operations. She said, ‘We are incredibly grateful for the generous support of David Duggleby Movers and Storers. Their commitment to donating £2 from every home removal demonstrates their dedication to making a positive impact across Yorkshire. With their support, we can continue to provide critical care and save lives across Yorkshire. Together, we are making a real difference’.

Read more YAA News Here.

The safety of Yorkshire Air Ambulance crew members has come under threat as laser attacks escalated over the weekend.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA), a lifeline for communities in Yorkshire, has recently seen a disturbing rapid escalation in laser attacks. Over the course of a single week, YAA has been subjected to three separate and deliberate laser assaults, with the latest attack resulting in an injury to one of their crew members.

On Friday evening during a transit flight back to their Nostell airbase, YAA Technical Crew Member Alex Clark, became the unfortunate victim of the most recent laser strike. Horrifically, the laser beam managed to hit Alex in one of his eyes resulting in a burn on his cornea. Although he is now on a path to a full recovery, his injury poignantly emphasises the very real threats faced by YAA’s crew members.

These attacks, characterised by their intermittent and seemingly random nature, have left the YAA searching for answers, as there appears to be no discernible pattern or motive behind these acts of senseless stupidity. The safety of YAA’s crews and the patients they serve is paramount, and these attacks constitute a threat to both.

YAA Chief Pilot Owen McTeggart emphasised the severe consequences of laser attacks on air ambulance operations: “If we get a laser attack while trying to land at the site of an incident, it means we cannot land, and the injured person on the ground doesn’t get the care that we are there to provide. It doesn’t take much for the eyes to be permanently damaged by a laser, and while the laser itself might not be a danger if it doesn’t contact the eyes, it is a massive distraction for the crew during a critical stage of flight and causes much distress.

A lot of it is ignorance to the implications it can have on our operations. And I’m sure most people who point a laser at a helicopter think it’s just a laugh and no harm is caused. But it can, in some cases, have life-changing consequences for the pilot, the crew, and if it’s an air ambulance under threat, the patient in the back whose life they are trying to save.”.

Mike Harrop, YAA Chairman, implores those responsible for these attacks to consider the gravity of their actions and the potential harm they are causing.  He added: “The safety and well-being of YAA’s dedicated crew members and patients are non-negotiable priorities.  Our crew shouldn’t fear flying on a shift at YAA, all because someone somewhere finds it amusing to shine lasers at aircraft, or they are ignorant to the dangers they are putting our crew in.   Regardless of whether YAA is being deliberately targeted or mistaken for another helicopter – it is wholly unacceptable for one of our crew members to suffer an injury due to someone else’s reckless actions.”

YAA now calls upon its supporters throughout the local communities it serves to assist in raising awareness of the dangers of shining lasers at aircraft.  Anyone with information related to these attacks is urged to come forward and contact the police, and help ensure that such incidents do not happen again.

Emily Stocks, a dedicated equestrian from a young age, has extended her profound gratitude to the Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) paramedics who played a pivotal role in saving her leg following a serious horse-riding accident. The incident, which left Emily severely injured, showcased the crucial role of YAA’s swift response and expert care in preserving her leg and enabling her remarkable journey to recovery.

Whilst riding a friend’s spirited Irish Draft horse named Rosie in an outdoor paddock, Emily’s world took an unexpected turn as Rosie suddenly bucked, throwing Emily to the ground, resulting in a serious and complex femur fracture. YAA’s rapid response was instrumental as the team of paramedics administered the powerful pain relief drug, ketamine, skilfully reliving her pain, whilst they straightened and immobilised her leg with a vacuum splint. The decision to airlift Emily to Sheffield Children’s Hospital proved paramount in ensuring her leg’s best chance for recovery.

Upon hospital arrival, the extent of Emily’s injuries became evident as her leg was nearly two inches shorter than its counterpart, necessitating an overnight weighted traction to gently realign her it before the impending, intricate surgery. The surgical procedure involved the insertion of a metal rod and strategic pins in her femur, hip, and knee to facilitate optimal healing.

Emily’s resilience shone during her ten-day hospital stay and subsequent 11-month journey to recovery, marked by challenges including a blood transfusion due to low iron levels. Her story, highlighted on Season 8 of “Helicopter ER,” highlighted the vital role YAA play in rapid medical intervention, contributing significantly to improved patient outcomes.

Emily has since embarked on a new chapter, wishing to help people with sports injuries similar to her own, enrolling as a student at the University of Bedford, where she is now studying Sports Therapy, with the ultimate aspiration to attain a master’s degree in canine and equine physiotherapy.

Emily has also raised nearly £800 during an event held at her stables to support Yorkshire Air Ambulance. This gesture serves as a symbol of her heartfelt appreciation for the dedicated crew who responded on that crucial day. The event’s overwhelming success has prompted Emily to consider establishing it as an annual tradition, further solidifying her enduring connection with the cause.

Reflecting on her experience, Emily shared, “My accident was a huge turning point in my life. The Yorkshire Air Ambulance team’s amazing care put me right at ease. I really don’t think my leg would’ve healed so well without them showing up as fast as they did. I can still remember watching the helicopter land by the paddock and thinking, ‘Yep, these guys are going to help save me!’ I’m fully committed to taking what I went through and turning it into something positive to help others. I want to give back and support the charity that made such a big difference on one of the worst days of my life.”

Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) is thrilled to announce the grand opening of an immersive and educational new exhibit, set to take visitors on a captivating journey through the history and groundbreaking innovations of the rapid response charity.

Nestled within the historic confines of Sheffield’s National Emergency Services Museum, this cutting-edge exhibition promises to be a must-visit destination for all ages.

Housed in one of Yorkshire’s earliest purpose-built combined Police, Fire, and Ambulance Stations, dating back to 1898, the National Emergency Services Museum boasts the distinction of being the world’s largest combined Emergency Services Museum. At its heart now lies the highly anticipated Air Ambulance interactive exhibition, inviting visitors to explore the life-saving world of YAA in a thrilling and immersive fashion.

The exhibit promises an enthralling blend of history and innovation. Museum visitors will be immersed in captivating narratives as they engage with interactive boards equipped with headphones, offering gripping tales from former patients, like Dave Townend, who experienced a life-threatening cardiac event in Sheffield and was swiftly air-lifted to a Sheffield hospital. Through the headset, Dave passionately shares why he’s now a dedicated volunteer, giving back to the charity that saved his life.

Stepping into the exhibit, visitors will be enveloped in a vivid red hue, reminiscent of YAA’s Air Bases, granting a glimpse into the conditions faced by the life-saving crew during critical night flying missions.

The displays within the exhibit showcase high-tech, lifesaving equipment utilised inside the helicopter. The exhibit will feature both older equipment, no longer in use, and the cutting-edge technology currently employed, providing a historical perspective on the evolution of life-saving innovations. Adding to the immersive experience, visitors will find lockers housing Paramedic and Pilot flight suits, inviting them to step into the specialised attire worn by the YAA medical and aviation teams.

One of the exhibit’s highlights is a true-to-life replica of an Air Ambulance Dispatch desk, complete with an interactive telephone. Guests can relive the tension as a live 999 call triggers an immediate response, with a dynamic map displaying the movement of a YAA helicopter, mirroring the Air Traffic Control systems used by the crew. An interactive dispatch button allows visitors to experience the identical siren that signals the team to assemble swiftly for a new mission. Subsequently, a monitor will take them on a virtual journey as the helicopter soars into the skies, replicating the heart-pounding moments of a life-saving mission.

Sammy Wills, a Senior HEMS Paramedic at Yorkshire Air Ambulance from Sheffield, expressed her pride in being part of the launch event. She said, “This exhibit is nothing short of fantastic – it’s not just incredibly informative but also remarkably enjoyable and engaging! I vividly recall walking in, and suddenly, someone hit the dispatch siren button; for a moment, I felt like I needed to dash out and hop onto the helicopter! Personally, my favourite aspect has to be those sections where you can listen to people sharing their stories. I believe it not only offers a window into our life-saving endeavours but also serves as a heartfelt tribute to the incredible people we help.“

The project was made possible through the generous support of the Sheffield Church Burgess Educational Foundation, which awards grants to various educational organisations, including projects like this that enrich the community’s understanding of emergency services.

David Stanley from Church Burgess Educational Foundation, who attended the launch, emphasised the significance of such educational initiatives in the community. He said, “I’m delighted to have been able to attend the launch of the exhibit and meet the fantastic team behind its creation. I truly believe it will serve as a valuable learning tool for future generations, offering engaging insights into the critical emergency work of the air ambulance.“

Matt Wakefield, Chief Executive Trustee at the National Emergency Services Museum, hailed the exhibit as a unique opportunity for visitors to connect with the life-saving work of Yorkshire Air Ambulance. He said, ‘Our guests are in for a real treat with this new exhibit; it’s been an incredibly rewarding project to be a part of. Throughout its creation, I’ve gained profound insights, not only into the exceptional life-saving crew at Yorkshire Air Ambulance but also into the extensive team working tirelessly behind the scenes to secure the funds necessary to keep the helicopters operational. I look forward to hearing our guests’ thoughts now that it’s open!’.

For more details about the exhibit, including booking information, click here.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) is elated to announce a significant milestone achieved by The Jack Brunton Charitable Trust, as they surpassed £500,000 in donations to support the vital work of the emergency response charity.

The momentous occasion was marked with a presentation to the Trust by YAA Chairman, Mike Harrop, who presented the Trustees of The Jack Brunton Charitable Trust, including Derek Noble (Chair), James Lumb, David Swallow, Andrew Dickins, and the trust’s Administrator, Margaret Culley, with a framed certificate and a special cake featuring an Ayrshire cow in honour of Jack Brunton’s roots as an Ayrshire Cattle farmer.

Established in 1986 by the late local farmer and landowner, Jack Brunton, The Jack Brunton Charitable Trust was created with the primary aim of benefitting the population of rural villages and towns within the boundary of the Old North Riding of Yorkshire, which existed before the 1974 boundary changes.

The partnership between The Jack Brunton Charitable Trust and Yorkshire Air Ambulance has been one of unwavering commitment, compassion, and community spirit. Their first contribution, a £16,000 donation towards a snow plough for use at the YAA’s Topcliffe Airbase in 2012, marked the beginning of a longstanding relationship that has positively impacted countless lives.

Over the years, the trust has been a staunch supporter of the YAA, making essential contributions towards enhancing the air ambulance’s capabilities and ensuring its continued operation. Their generous donations have been instrumental in funding various crucial helicopter support equipment for the Topcliffe airbase, as well as contributing towards other operational advancements.

Most recently, The Jack Brunton Charitable Trust played a significant role in funding eight Technical Crew Member flight helmets, which proudly feature their logo on the back. They also provided £20,000 towards a new stretcher system and have continuously supported the YAA for core operational costs, enabling the Yorkshire Air Ambulance to offer life-saving services to those in dire need.

Recognising the exceptional dedication of The Jack Brunton Charitable Trust, Yorkshire Air Ambulance bestowed the Trust, the prestigious ‘Grants and Trusts’ YAA Recognition Award in October 2017 and 2022. Furthermore, as a gesture of gratitude for their steadfast support, the YAA has proudly adorned their fleet of helicopters with the trust’s logo since 2018.

Speaking of the partnership, Derek Noble, Chairman of The Jack Brunton Charitable Trust, said, “We are immensely proud to reach this remarkable milestone of £500,000 in donations to Yorkshire Air Ambulance. Our trust has always been committed to making a difference in the lives of those in need, and we are honoured to support the exceptional work of the Yorkshire Air Ambulance in saving lives and serving our region. We look forward to continuing our partnership and making a positive impact together.”

The Yorkshire Air Ambulance and The Jack Brunton Charitable Trust stand united in their mission to save lives and serve their communities. Their shared commitment to making a difference continues to inspire and bring hope to countless lives across the region.

Mike Harrop, Chairman of Yorkshire Air Ambulance, expressed his gratitude, saying, “The Jack Brunton Charitable Trust is an incredible partner and a driving force behind our ability to deliver life-saving care to those in urgent need. Their unwavering commitment and generosity have had a profound impact on our charity, and we are humbled to have their continued support. This milestone of £500,000 in donations is a testament to the trust’s dedication to our mission and the communities we serve. We look forward to many more years of collaboration and life-saving efforts together“.

For more information about The Jack Brunton Charitable Trust, please visit www.jbct.org.uk.

Ten New Look stores in North and East Yorkshire have committed to a year-long partnership with Yorkshire Air Ambulance, demonstrating their unwavering support for the life-saving charity.

The stores participating in this partnership are located on Blake Street in York, Monks Cross Shopping Park in York, St Stephens Shopping Centre in Hull, North Point Shopping Centre in Hull, Gowthorpe in Selby, Wesley Square Shopping Centre in Goole, Brunswick Shopping Centre in Scarborough, Chapel Street in Bridlington, Toll Gavel in Beverley and High Street in Scunthorpe.

The stores will raise vital funds by introducing a point-of-pay donation option, allowing a convenient and seamless way for customers to make a difference during their shopping experience and contributing directly to Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

Additionally, the dedicated New Look staff members are set to participate in various fundraising activities throughout the year to bolster their total fundraising contributions.

Sue Fairley, Head of Sourcing, Sustainability and Quality at New Look, said, “New Look are delighted to be working with Yorkshire Air Ambulance. We are channelling our efforts to partner with local charities this year and we will give our resources to raise awareness and support fundraising to help support the communities we are a part of in the Yorkshire region. This is part of our Kind To Our Core commitments.”

Yorkshire Air Ambulance plays a crucial role in emergency medical services, and its presence is vital in North and East Yorkshire. By partnering with New Look, the charity will not only receive direct financial support but also benefit from increased awareness and community involvement.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance Regional Fundraising Manager for North & East, Linda Stead, said, “We are delighted to welcome 10 New Look stores across North and East Yorkshire as our charity partners. Their commitment to supporting Yorkshire Air Ambulance is truly remarkable. By introducing the point-of-pay donation option and engaging their staff in fundraising activities, they are actively contributing to our life-saving missions. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to New Look for their dedication to our cause.”

To read more YAA News, click here.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA), a leading charity providing life-saving emergency medical services, has proudly announced its official signing of the Armed Forces Covenant. This momentous step showcases Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s unwavering commitment to supporting the Armed Forces Community, recognising their invaluable contributions and sacrifices.

The Armed Forces Covenant is a pledge to ensure that those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces, as well as their families, are treated with the utmost respect and fairness. By signing this covenant, YAA aims to solidify its dedication to inclusivity, fostering a culture of gratitude and understanding.

The significance of this covenant resonates deeply with the charity, which is proud to have many military veterans as part of its team. These veterans bring a wealth of experience, resilience, and dedication that aligns perfectly with YAA’s core mission to save lives. Recognising the value of these individuals, YAA is committed to supporting their continued employment and career growth, actively considering their valuable military skills and qualifications during recruitment and selection processes.

Laura Wilson, HR Manager at Yorkshire Air Ambulance, states “As a charity deeply rooted in serving our communities, we are incredibly proud to sign the Armed Forces Covenant. This commitment reflects our unwavering support to the Armed Forces Community and highlights our determination to provide equal opportunities and care to those who have dedicated their lives to protect our country. By promoting the Covenant’s principles and implementing our pledges, we aim to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for veterans, Service spouses, Reserves, and cadets.“

As part of Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s pledges, the charity will actively promote its Armed Forces-friendly status to stakeholders, raising awareness of the Armed Forces Covenant.

The YAA will also be committed to supporting veterans, recognising their valuable military skills. YAA also acknowledges the sacrifices of Service spouses and partners and offers employment support with flexible leave options.

The Yorkshire Air Ambulance will continue to stand firmly behind its Reserve Forces employees, providing support during mobilisations and deployments. In addition, YAA will proudly support its employees volunteering in military cadet organisations and extends its support to local cadet units.

Moreover, YAA will actively participate in significant Armed Forces events, expressing gratitude for the brave men and women who serve our country.

Owen McTeggart, an Armed Forces veteran and Chief HEMS Pilot for Yorkshire Air Ambulance, stated, “As a former member of the Armed Forces and now a pilot at Yorkshire Air Ambulance, the signing of the Armed Forces Covenant holds profound personal significance. It’s inspiring to witness the charity’s commitment to supporting veterans and acknowledging their unique skill sets. My military background has provided me with invaluable life experiences and qualities that I regularly apply in my role as a HEMS pilot, and I am very proud to be a part of a charity that values and embraces these attributes.“

Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s dedication to the Armed Forces Covenant reinforces its position as a compassionate and inclusive charity, focused on saving lives and making a positive impact on all the communities it serves.

To read more YAA News, click here. 

Life-saving charity, Yorkshire Air Ambulance has recently been awarded a £19,000 donation from Sovereign Health Care, a leading not-for-profit health cash plan provider renowned for its strong commitment to supporting communities in Bradford and West Yorkshire.

The donation is part of Sovereign Health Care’s esteemed Community Programme, dedicated to empowering community-based health initiatives and positively impacting the lives of others. This significant contribution represents a day’s operational costs for the charity and will play a crucial role in supporting their life-saving missions.

Sovereign Health Care’s enduring partnership with Yorkshire Air Ambulance spans over two decades, with the organisation serving as a Principal Partner and steadfast supporter since their first donation in 2001. Over the years, their unwavering dedication has made Sovereign Health Care one of YAA’s longest-standing corporate supporters, with their total contributions exceeding an impressive £450,000.

A testament to their continued support, Sovereign Health Care’s logo has adorned the charity’s helicopters for over 18 years, serving as a symbol of their partnership and shared mission to make a difference in the community.

Commenting on the partnership, Russ Piper, Chief Executive at Sovereign Health Care, stated, “We are immensely proud to continue our longstanding partnership with Yorkshire Air Ambulance and to support their invaluable work in saving lives across the region. As we celebrate our 150th anniversary this year, this £19,000 donation exemplifies our ongoing commitment to community-based health initiatives. Our not-for-profit status empowers us to make a meaningful impact, and we are dedicated to giving back between 5% and 10% of our annual turnover to support projects that focus on health and wellbeing. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Yorkshire Air Ambulance and all the dedicated individuals who work tirelessly to make a difference in the community“.

Marianne Haworth, Grants & Trusts Manager at Yorkshire Air Ambulance, expressed her profound gratitude for the ongoing support, stating, “We are extremely thankful to Sovereign Health Care for their continuous and unwavering dedication. This £19,000 donation is a testament to their commitment to our mission of saving lives across Yorkshire. Together with Sovereign, we remain resolute in reaching new heights and ensuring the well-being of our communities. Thank you for believing in our cause and standing with us on this vital journey“.

For more YAA News, Click Here.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance is proud to announce the addition of former patient Michelle Raine to their North Yorkshire fundraising team. Michelle’s remarkable journey from being an ex-patient to becoming an integral part of the YAA team is a testament to the impact the charity has had on her life.

Joining the dynamic fundraising team in June 2023, Michelle brings a deep personal connection to YAA’s mission, stemming from her own harrowing accident, which was also broadcast on a previous episode of Helicopter ER. On the 8th of August 2017, Michelle experienced a life-changing event when she was involved in a serious tractor accident near Masham.

The tractor she was on rolled down a hill, leaving Michelle, who was a passenger at the time, with devastating injuries including a broken pelvis and serious spinal injuries. Fortunately, the Yorkshire Air Ambulance crew arrived quickly to the scene, providing her with critical emergency medical care, pain relief and airlifted her to Leeds General Infirmary for further treatment.

Michelle’s road to recovery was filled with challenges as she was rushed into emergency surgery to stabilise her pelvis, a critical step in her healing process. Over the course of her two-week hospital stint, she displayed unwavering strength as she also battled pneumonia, which resulted in the collapse of her lungs. This setback only fuelled Michelle’s determination to overcome the odds.

Once discharged from the hospital, Michelle faced two months in a wheelchair whilst her body recovered from the ordeal. Despite the hardships she encountered, through hard work, perseverance, and the support of her loved ones, Michelle has since made a full recovery.

Driven by a desire to give back, Michelle leapt at the opportunity to work for the very charity that saved her life. She said, “When I saw the Yorkshire Air Ambulance helicopter landing in the field to save me, I knew I was in safe hands. Their swift response and expert care during my accident were nothing short of miraculous.

Now, as part of the YAA family, I cherish the opportunity to give back and make a positive impact on the lives of others, just like they did for me. Every day is a new adventure, and I am deeply committed to doing everything I can to assist those that support the charity that once saved my life. It’s an honour to be part of this fantastic team!“

Michelle’s passion for supporting the Yorkshire Air Ambulance has been evident long before she joined the fundraising team. In 2018, just one year after her accident, she organised a successful fundraising ball at Tennants Auctioneers in Leyburn. Raising an impressive £15,000 to give back to the charity, she rightly earned a YAA recognition award in 2019, recognising her exceptional dedication and contribution to the charity.

Regional Fundraising Manager, Linda Stead, said, “Michelle is an invaluable asset to our fundraising team. Her firsthand experience as an ex-patient allows her to connect with donors and supporters on a deeper level, inspiring them with her remarkable journey and gratitude. Michelle’s passion shines through every day, and she is a true testament to the life-changing impact of Yorkshire Air Ambulance, we are incredibly proud to have her on board.“

To read more YAA News, click here.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance is excited to announce the launch of its annual Hike4Helis campaign, a thrilling active challenge that calls upon their supporters to embark on a journey spanning the distance between their two air bases – a total of 33 miles – or the round trip of 66 miles.

Now in its 3rd year, Hike4Helis aims to raise vital funds for the life-saving charity, ensuring the helicopters can continue their missions across Yorkshire.

Throughout the entire month of September, the YAA Crew challenges individuals, groups, and communities across Yorkshire to participate in the sponsored challenge. The distance of 33 miles between the Nostell and Topcliffe airbases can be completed at an average pace of 1.1 miles each day. For those seeking an additional challenge, the round trip of 66 miles can be accomplished at an average pace of 2.2 miles each day.

Participants are not only encouraged to accumulate their miles through traditional hiking, walking, and running, but also to embrace their creativity and choose from a variety of activities. Whether it’s cycling through scenic Yorkshire routes, swimming laps in a pool, or even engaging in adventurous pursuits such as paddleboarding or canoeing, participants have the freedom to select the mode that most resonates with them and to be inclusive to all.

Additionally, the Yorkshire Air Ambulance team will be eagerly watching out for participants with the most unique costumes throughout the month, adding an element of fun and excitement to the challenge.

Upon completing the challenge, participants will receive an official YAA Hike4Helis certificate, recognising their achievement. The YAA encourages participants to share their progress and updates on social media platforms, using the hashtag #Hike4Helis, to inspire others and showcase the collective determination and commitment to the cause.

In addition to inviting supporters and communities to join the Hike4Helis challenge, the dedicated YAA Crew will lead by example, actively participating in the challenge by walking and running around the perimeters of the two YAA air bases. Furthermore, the enthusiasm has spread across various teams within the charity, as the head office and fundraising teams will be showcasing a unified commitment to the reaching their target miles and further amplifying the impact of Hike4Helis.

Sam Berridge, HEMS Paramedic said, “Being a part of the Yorkshire Air Ambulance team has shown me firsthand the incredible impact our helicopters have on saving lives across the region. Hike4Helis is not only an exciting challenge but also a fantastic opportunity for our supporters of all abilities to come together and make a difference. Every challenge undertaken and every mile covered brings us closer to ensuring our vital service continues. I encourage everyone to join us on this incredible journey and help us raise crucial funds for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance.”

For more information about how you can get involved with Hike4Helis, or to download our Hike4helis guide, please visit click here.

Former Mayor of Harrogate, Victoria Oldham, supported by community fundraisers at Yorkshire Air Ambulance have successfully raised an outstanding £5287.46 through her dedicated efforts in organising bucket collections for the emergency response charity.

The collections took place at the prestigious Royal Hall and Convention Centre in Harrogate during busy show nights and large-scale events. The funds raised will provide vital support to the life-saving services offered by Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

Victoria, who recently retired following the reorganisation of local government resulting in the transfer of power to the new, larger North Yorkshire Council, demonstrated immense commitment and community spirit during her time in office.

Recognising the importance of Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s work, she harnessed the generosity of Harrogate residents and visitors alike, making a significant impact on the charity’s fundraising efforts.

Reflecting on the success of the bucket collections, the former Mayor expressed her gratitude to the people of Harrogate, saying, “I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together. The response from our community has been truly inspiring, and it is heart warming to witness such generosity towards Yorkshire Air Ambulance. I firmly believe in supporting charitable causes, and the incredible work the crew and fundraisers undertake is truly inspiring, they deserve all the credit they get! It has been an honour to support their work.”

Paula Lorimer, Harrogate Convention Centre Director, who helped arrange the bucket collections at 21 events over four months, said “It has been our pleasure to help organise the bucket collections at our Convention Centre, knowing how much good the money will do makes it all the more worthwhile. We’re thankful to former Mayor Victoria Oldham for leading this initiative and to the attendees of our events at the Royal Hall and Exhibition Centre for their remarkable generosity. Harrogate’s community spirit shines through in the success of these collections, making a positive impact on the lives of others.”

It currently costs £19,000 a day to keep Yorkshire’s air ambulances maintained and operational in the air. As an independent charity, Yorkshire Air Ambulance relies on the generosity of individuals and organisations to operate and help save lives across Yorkshire.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance Regional Fundraiser, Tessa Klemz, expressed her sincerest appreciation for the remarkable amount raised. She said, “We are immensely grateful to Victoria Oldham, the venue organisers and of course the people of Harrogate for their incredible support. The money raised through the bucket collections will make a real difference in helping us continue to provide vital, life-saving services to those in need across Yorkshire. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Victoria for her outstanding efforts.”

Samantha Harrison, an intrepid adventurer and dedicated Director and Care Home Manager for Continued Care in Harrogate, has successfully completed an awe-inspiring climb of Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa, to raise vital funds for Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

Samantha’s remarkable journey represents not only a hugely personal triumph, but the climb also serves as a testament to the unwavering support of her family, who joined her on the ambitious hike and helped raise over £2,320 to support this crucial charity.

The Kilimanjaro expedition was part of Continued Care’s charity of the year fundraising activities. Continued Care, a leading provider of care services in Harrogate, has forged a meaningful partnership with Yorkshire Air Ambulance, aiming to contribute to the ongoing efforts of the emergency response charity in providing vital emergency medical services to the local community.

Months of rigorous training and preparation were required for Samantha and her family to tackle the challenging expedition and reach the summit. Reflecting on her achievement, Samantha expressed, “Succeeding in reaching the summit of Kilimanjaro and raising £2,320 for Yorkshire Air Ambulance has been an incredible accomplishment and a once-in-a-lifetime ambition of mine. Throughout this journey, I have been inspired by the unwavering support of my family, friends, and colleagues at Continued Care. Together, we have made a positive impact on our community by contributing to the life-saving efforts of Yorkshire Air Ambulance. It is an honour to have been part of this incredible trip, and I hope that our efforts inspire others to pursue their dreams while supporting meaningful causes.“

Tessa Klemz, North Yorkshire Regional Fundraiser for Yorkshire Air Ambulance, expressed her gratitude, saying, “On behalf of Yorkshire Air Ambulance, we would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to Samantha for her tremendous efforts in conquering Kilimanjaro in support of our charity. The funds she has raised, alongside that of her coworkers at Continued Care, will make a significant difference in our ability to provide life-saving medical services to those in need across Yorkshire. We are incredibly grateful for Samantha’s passion and determination to make a positive impact on our community.”

To read more YAA News, click here.