Rebecca Selkirk

Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) played a pivotal role in the suspense-filled episode of Emmerdale that aired last night (Wednesday, 11^th of October). This special feature marks a significant collaboration between the popular ITV soap and the YAA, focussing on the essential work of the charity and the critical role air ambulances play in emergency medical situations.

In Tuesday’s episode of Emmerdale, Mackenzie Boyd, Charity Dingle, and Chloe Harris found themselves entangled in a brutal car crash as part of the show’s thrilling stunt week. The intense storyline, filled with suspense and drama, captivated viewers nationwide.

The episode portrayed a series of events that took a sinister turn when the car Chloe, Mackenzie and Charity are travelling in veers off the road after an unexpected van collision and left their car teetering on the edge of a cliff.  Viewers were left in suspense on Tuesday night wondering who Mackenzie saved after the car plummets to the bottom of the quarry with one passenger still inside.

Cue the surprise arrival of one of YAA’s iconic yellow helicopters in Wednesday’s episode elevating the authenticity of the storyline and the severity of the incident. The dramatic stunt sequence, encompassing multiple days of filming for the Emmerdale cast, intricately involved skilled stunt performers and visual effects to craft the gripping final shots. Yorkshire Air Ambulance contributed to the episode during a single day of filming in late August, taking place at a disused quarry at Denhome near Keighley.

Despite the filming, both of Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s air bases in Wakefield and Thirsk continued to operate as usual, ensuring that their life-saving service was never offline or affected. This dedication to service continuity is a testament to the professionalism and commitment to the charity’s values and mission.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance pilot, James Booth, who flew the YAA helicopter in the episode has also previously appeared as another helicopter pilot on the ITV show back in 2006. He shared his experience, saying, “Participating in such an iconic show while piloting an equally iconic helicopter was an incredible experience. Very few people have the privilege of flying a helicopter on the show for a second time, so I consider myself fortunate to have received this opportunity. The show’s willingness to include YAA is a testament to their commitment to authenticity, mirroring the dedication and precision that define our missions every day.“

YAA Operations Manager Paul Holmes, who was one of two YAA Paramedics who were part of the iconic scenes alongside colleague Gemma Richmond also offered clinical guidance and support to the actors, Director and production team. He said, “It was a truly unique experience collaborating with the Emmerdale team and witnessing the behind-the-scenes production of such a renowned show in action. The entire YAA team has been eagerly anticipating the episode’s release since we wrapped up filming. For me, our mission extends beyond saving lives; it’s about shining a spotlight on the vital work we do, and this collaboration has offered a fantastic platform for that.”

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. As an independent charity, Yorkshire Air Ambulance relies on the generosity of individuals and organisations to operate and help save lives across Yorkshire.

Emmerdale’s Production Manager Bob Farrell, praised the YAA’s involvement, saying, “We were absolutely delighted to be able to involve YAA with this gripping storyline. The team demonstrated remarkable dedication and expertise on the day, playing a pivotal role in ensuring the scenes looked as realistic and as accurate as possible. Their valuable medical insights and direction left us in awe of the incredible work the YAA does in real life, and we’re immensely grateful for their support, which contributed to the episode’s overall authenticity and helped portray the seriousness of the accident.”

For more YAA news, click here. 

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.

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 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.