Patients

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.

YAA Paramedics Save North Yorkshire Equestrian After Being Crushed by Her Horse

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Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s swift response to a serious rural equestrian accident takes centre stage in the premiere 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 diverse landscapes and communities across Yorkshire.

In this week’s episode, a routine countryside ride turns into a critical situation when North Yorkshire equestrian Claire Holywell suffered a near-fatal accident with her horse, Emy. The episode highlights Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s lifesaving expertise and their ability to reach critically injured patients – even in Yorkshire’s most remote areas.

While riding through Swainby, in May 2024, Claire’s horse, Emy, was startled and reared up, causing Claire to fall backward to the ground. In the process, Emy also lost her balance and fell, landing on top of Claire as she hit the ground, causing Claire to briefly lose consciousness from the impact. As Emy struggled to regain her footing, she rolled over Claire and, in the process, stood on her chest. This traumatic incident left Claire breathless and in severe pain, causing significant injuries, including two fractures to her right scapula, seven broken ribs, a punctured lung, and a severe pelvic injury, with her pelvis separating at the front and fracturing at the back.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s Critical Care Team, comprising Paramedics Becky Knight and Stewart Ashburner-Mcmanus, swiftly arrived from YAA’s Topcliffe base in Thirsk, reaching Claire in just minutes. After assessing the scene, the team quickly secured the area, being mindful of Emy’s agitated state. Becky explained, “When we come into a situation involving horses, especially one that’s been spooked, we need to ensure everyone’s safety. Our goal is to protect the patient and anyone around without adding risk.”

Claire’s injuries were life-threatening, particularly to her pelvis, which carried a significant risk of internal bleeding. The team promptly administered morphine to manage her pain and monitored her vital signs. They then gave her ketamine, a fast-acting analgesic with dissociative properties, providing rapid pain relief. This allowed the team to apply a pelvic binder and safely transfer her onto a stretcher. The dissociative effects of ketamine also meant Claire would have limited memory of the accident and her pain, a benefit that can aid her long-term mental recovery.

Speaking about the importance of rapid intervention, Stewart said, “We can help prevent worsening conditions at the scene, but the actual treatment for injuries like these comes from surgery and advanced care at a Major Trauma Centre. That’s why we aim to get patients to trauma facilities within the ‘golden hour’ – the faster they receive lifesaving surgical treatment, the greater their chances for recovery.”

YAA’s team transported Claire to James Cook University Hospital, where she underwent emergency treatment and monitoring for her injuries, resulting in a 10-day hospital stay. Doctors at the hospital estimate her injuries may take up to a year for her to fully heal.

Despite her injuries, Claire’s dedication to horses remains unwavering. “At this stage, I don’t know if I’ll be able to ride again, but I’m very hopeful. If I can ride, I definitely want to get back on board. For now though, Emy is content just getting cuddles and being in her field”, she said.

Reflecting on her rescue, Claire expressed her gratitude to the Yorkshire Air Ambulance team, adding, “I don’t know what we’d have done without them, especially as the land ambulance couldn’t reach me because we were so far from a gateway in a 100-acre field. The crew were so skilled and compassionate and worked brilliantly as a team. I felt very looked after in their care. They were all amazing, and I really can’t thank them enough.”

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 13-year-old girl facing a life-threatening asthma attack in the remote Dales.

Couple Crushed by 15 Tonne Oak Tree Saved by Yorkshire Air Ambulance Medics

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Stephanie and Giles Bilton will feature on Helicopter ER’s season finale ‘storm special’ episode.

In the upcoming season finale of Helicopter ER, Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s (YAA) critical care team are put to the test, as they battle to save the lives of married couple, Stephanie and Giles Bilton, who were in a devastating car accident during storm Malik in January 2022.

The hour-long ‘storm special’ episode, set to air on Friday, November 17th, at 9 PM on Quest, focuses exclusively on the remarkable rescue operation, allowing viewers access to the critical work of the YAA amidst severe weather conditions.

While driving through the Howardian hills of Yearsley in York to meet their friends for the afternoon, the couple’s car was struck by a mature oak tree that had split in half due to the force of the powerful winds. The unfortunate timing of the tree’s fall resulted in the pair being trapped in the wreckage, requiring urgent medical attention.

The YAA’s critical care team, led by Paramedics Gemma Richmond and Lisa Dempster swiftly navigated the storm’s fury to reach the accident site. Pilot Colin Hawkesworth, with three decades of flying experience under challenging conditions, covered the 11-mile flight distance in just 4.5 minutes.

YAA medics collaborated with local paramedics and Fire and Rescue services to extricate the Biltons from the wreckage. Stephanie, who was a passenger at the time, was easily freed, however, Giles remained trapped for over an hour, pinned by large branches covering his chest, shoulder and legs.

Upon examination, Stephanie had suffered a blow to the head, which was causing her to become disorientated, she also had lacerations to her head, face and hands.

Paramedic Gemma Richmond highlighted the delicate balance between urgency and caution during the extraction process, expressing concerns about potential hidden injuries. She said, “When moving things around from on top of a patient, there is always a risk that it might be inadvertently blocking a critical bleed. My foremost concern was that by moving the tree, we could potentially trigger a hidden major internal or external bleed.”

After Giles was extricated from the car, the paramedics gained a clearer understanding of the severity of his injuries. His plummeting oxygen levels raised immediate concern, signalling a critical situation. Giles suffered lacerations across his head, extensive injuries to his left side of the chest, and reported numbness in his right hand, with the primary injuries concentrated in his chest area.

The drastic drop in temperatures made administering pain medication challenging due to the limited availability of viable veins. Consequently, a crucial decision was made to place Giles in a state-of-the-art thermal sleeping bag to rapidly elevate his body temperature and sustain it throughout the transportation process.

Also freed from the car was the couples pet dog who was unscathed from the accident.

Giles became the priority candidate for airlifting due to the helicopter’s capacity to transport only one patient at a time. Despite the weather challenges, the YAA team efficiently airlifted Giles to James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough. There, a specialised trauma team were waiting. The couple found themselves receiving treatment at separate locations, approximately 50 miles apart as Stephanie was transported by land ambulance to York General Hospital for her medical care.

Miraculously, Giles survived with six broken ribs, narrowly avoiding fatal injuries to his lungs and heart. Stephanie faced a series of severe injuries, including a broken humerus, and fractures to her shoulder and scapula. She expressed relief at reuniting with Giles after the traumatic event, and her memory of the incident is still clouded by the ordeal.

Stephanie said, “My initial recollection begins at the hospital. The entire duration is somewhat bewildering; it’s like your mind clouds over, perhaps a defence mechanism kicking in? All my memories from the day feel somewhat foggy, and a bit muddled. I wasn’t informed about Giles’ condition initially. The first sight of Giles post-accident was when I returned home from the hospital. Seeing him waiting in the kitchen brought immense relief—We have been married for 32 years, so I can’t express the comfort I felt in seeing him again.”

Giles, reflecting on the harrowing moments of entrapment and subsequent rescue, conveyed profound gratitude for the exceptional efforts of the YAA team, recognising the narrow margins that separated survival from potential tragedy. He recounted, “I can still picture passing by the village hall, thinking ‘wow this is seriously windy’ and then I just recall waking up in a complete mess in a car with a tree all over me. I was pinned to the seat, and I could hardly breathe. The seatbelt was like a ratchet strap – I felt quite desperate at that point.

I remember a farmer talking to me when I regained consciousness, who had informed me that he had called for help. I can’t begin to explain the relief when I could hear the helicopter landing beside us. The air ambulance staff were incredible, and I am immensely thankful for everything they did for me and my wife on that day. We were lucky… well very unlucky, to be hit by the crown of the tree, but very lucky to get out of it alive’.

Delighted to find out that the couple had since made a full recovery, paramedic Gemma said, “It’s unbelievable that two individuals driving in a car were struck by a tree of that magnitude and managed to survive. A mere few centimetres in either direction and the outcome could have been drastically different. While our helicopter often responds to distressing situations, this particular incident will be etched in memory for its positive conclusion—and a reminder to live for the present moment.”

YAA Fight to Save the Life of a Pensioner Who Was Crushed by a Runaway Trailer

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Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s indispensable role in preserving the life of a resilient senior citizen crushed by a runaway trailer takes centre stage in an upcoming “Helicopter ER” episode.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s vital role in saving the life of a 72-year-old, Ivor Parlett, who was crushed by a runaway trailer, will be showcased in an upcoming episode of “Helicopter ER.” The incident highlights the exceptional medical expertise of YAA’s critical care team during a high-stakes operation.

As Ivor was making his usual walk home from the supermarket in Thorne, Doncaster, a detached trailer veered onto the pavement, pinning him against a concrete wall, putting his life in jeopardy.

Upon receiving a distress call from a local paramedic at the scene, Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s critical care team quickly responded from their Nostell Air Base in Wakefield. Local police who had arrived at the scene first, removed the trailer from Ivor, revealing the severity of his injuries, which included a nearly complete below-the-knee amputation, a severe right-sided chest injury, and a significant neck laceration.

Upon arrival, Dr. Steve Rowe, an experienced trauma doctor, recognised the gravity of the situation. He explained, “When a limb has been amputated, the damage to blood vessels can be significant, and arterial bleeding can rapidly become fatal.”

The YAA team acted swiftly, administering powerful analgesia medication, morphine and ketamine, before transporting Ivor by land ambulance to Sheffield Northern General Hospital, the nearest major trauma centre specialising in limb reconstruction. Throughout the 30-mile journey, the YAA crew provided continuous medical interventions to stabilise Ivor’s critical condition.

During the journey, the critical care team administered blood clotting medication to counteract the effects of Ivor’s usual blood-thinning medication. This step was crucial due to the significant blood loss at the scene, which put immense pressure on Ivor’s heart, posing the risk of a heart attack. Recognising this, Dr. Steve initiated a life-saving blood transfusion en route.

Upon arrival at Sheffield Northern, a full trauma team was assembled and awaiting Ivor.. He was taken directly to the resuscitation area, where the team continued the relentless fight to save his life.

Regrettably, the team couldn’t save Ivor’s leg, and he required a full amputation, subsequently receiving a prosthetic in its place. Additionally, Ivor suffered broken ribs, a punctured lung, a fractured spine, and lost hearing in both ears.

Throughout the ordeal, Ivor remains profoundly grateful to Yorkshire Air Ambulance crews who rallied to his aid. Although the accident reshaped his life, his determination to cherish what he has is unwavering. He said, “I consider myself incredibly fortunate to be alive and to still be here today. Dr. Steve and the YAA team played a vital role in saving my life during the journey to the hospital, and their dedication and expertise are beyond measure. Yorkshire Air Ambulance is an exceptional charity, and I am incredibly grateful.

Regarding my amputation, I’ve come to realise that life can throw unexpected challenges our way, and we must adapt. I’ve accepted my new reality and am determined to make the most of it. You learn to adjust, don’t you? I’m focused on embracing this new chapter and making it the best it can be.“

YAA Comes to the Aid of Injured Motorcyclist with Punctured Lung in North Yorkshire Village

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In an upcoming episode of “Helicopter ER” airing on Friday night, November 3rd, Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s critical care team (YAA) once again showcases their unwavering dedication to saving lives.  Viewers will witness a gripping rescue operation involving Simon Curtis, a 58-year-old motorcyclist, who was involved in a scooter accident in the scenic village of Whitley, near Selby.

On a cold May evening, Simon joined his friends from a local scooter club for a leisurely ride. However, his bike, with a maximum speed of just 60mph, led Simon to fall behind. Eager to rejoin his fellow bikers, Simon gently accelerated to catch up, but as he manoeuvred through a tight bend in the road, he ultimately lost control, resulting in a painful fall from his scooter.

The critical care team at Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s Nostell Air Base in Wakefield were alerted to the incident, springing to action. The YAA Pilot skilfully navigated the crew, comprised of Paramedics, Mikie Williams and Al Day and Dr Jez Pinnell, 10 miles east to a remote country lane, ensuring the team’s rapid arrival. YAA’s medics were the first to arrive at the crash site, with land ambulance crews still 22 minutes away.

A motorist, driving with his family, discovered Simon unconscious and seriously injured in the middle of the road, approximately 12 feet from his overturned scooter, and promptly called for an ambulance. The family remained by Simon’s side until help arrived.

As daylight faded and temperatures plummeted, the YAA’s medical team had to work quickly to stabilise Simon. Cutting him free from his biking Parka, the paramedics began conducting a thorough assessment of his condition. As Simon gradually regained consciousness, he remained disoriented, complaining of chest pains, and was bleeding profusely from a laceration to his head.

During the assessment, Simon’s oxygen levels were alarmingly low, and his breathing was compromised, further emphasising the critical nature of YAA’s intervention. The decision was made to transport Simon by road to Leeds General Infirmary (LGI), where a trauma team were awaiting his arrival.

Tests at the hospital revealed that Simon had suffered five broken ribs and a punctured lung as a result of the accident. Following this traumatic incident, Simon required a nine-week hiatus from work to recover, and the experience left him deeply shaken.

When asked about his future with motorcycling, Simon stated, “I have sold my bike and I have no intentions of getting back in the saddle again.”

He added, “I remember coming over the A19, past some cottages, and then waking up in LGI in Leeds. I don’t ride a high-powered bike, which is why I am often at the back of the line, and that’s why none of my fellow riders had realized that my fall had happened. I am incredibly grateful to Yorkshire Air Ambulance for their swift response and for saving me, they are a fantastic charity, that does incredibly important work and I am wholeheartedly committed to supporting them.”

Yorkshire Air Ambulance Saves 22-Year-Old from Electric Shock Tragedy

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Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s vital role in saving the life of a young electric shock victim showcased in upcoming “Helicopter ER” episode.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) played a crucial role in saving the life of Fraser Bennett, a then 22-year-old machine worker from Bridlington, following a devastating workplace accident. Fraser’s harrowing experience and remarkable recovery will be highlighted in an upcoming episode of the acclaimed TV series “Helicopter ER,” as YAA’s critical care team demonstrates their exceptional medical expertise during a high-stakes mission.

Whilst conducting routine maintenance checks on a tall piece of machinery at his workplace in Sherburn, Fraser was suddenly gripped to the machine by a powerful electric current. The shockwave sent him into immediate cardiac arrest. His colleague, realising the severity of the situation, promptly aided in freeing him from the machine, resulting in a 6-foot fall from the ladder on which he stood, before initiating life-saving CPR and called 999 for help.

The critical care team at Yorkshire Air Ambulance were alerted to the incident following a call from a local paramedic at the scene, who required urgent on-scene support. Responding from their Nostell Air Base in Wakefield, which was 50 miles away and a 20-minute flight, the YAA crew, including Paramedics Pete and Andy, along with Dr Neil Sambridge, raced against time to reach the rural industrial unit in North Yorkshire.

Upon arrival, the land ambulance crews had already restarted Fraser’s heart, which had stopped beating, using a defibrillator, achieving what is medically known as a ‘Return of Spontaneous Circulation’ (ROSC).

While the primary focus of the medical team was Fraser’s cardiac condition, they also assessed the significant electrical burns on Fraser’s arm caused by the shock, as well as a bloody nose, which were additional points of concern. Excessive levels of carbon dioxide in Fraser’s blood were also a concerning sign, as it indicated the potential for brain damage due to the time he spent in cardiac arrest.

Dr. Neill made a critical decision at the scene to induce a controlled medical coma through a rapid sequence induction (RSI) procedure, essential to Fraser’s survival. At the time, Fraser’s risk of death was exceptionally high, and the precision of the procedure was paramount.

The episode will provide a behind-the-scenes look at the intricate RSI procedure, which involved administering a sequence of drugs to ensure Fraser’s airways remained open, his brain was protected, and he was kept in a stable, controlled medical coma.

Fraser was swiftly transported by air to James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough, a major trauma centre, for further treatment. Before leaving the scene, Dr. Neill commended the other emergency service crews for their swift actions in restarting Fraser’s heart, stating that the initial defibrillation shock likely saved his life.

Remarkably, Fraser awoke from his medically induced coma just three days later. Eighteen months on, he continues on his journey of recovery, learning to walk again and regain his mobility, speech, and confidence.

Fraser shared, “It was just a routine maintenance job, a general check of the machine. I was up a ladder, and the next thing I knew, I was waking up in a state of confusion, still in shock when I learned what had happened to me. It was an incredibly worrying time for my family; they were prepared for me to wake up with brain damage. However, to my relief, I woke up, and I was quite functional, I’d say. During my recovery, I found myself in a dark place initially; I didn’t want to leave the house, and I avoided socialising. But I am slowly getting back to my usual self.”

He went on to express his gratitude to the team that saved his life, saying, “I owe my deepest thanks to the Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s critical care team for saving my life. I also want to extend my sincere appreciation to the emergency services who were the first on the scene and quickly defibrillated me when my heart stopped. Together they have granted me a second chance at life.”

Since the accident, Fraser has made a remarkable recovery. He has successfully returned to work through a phased approach and embarked on a new project, restoring a 1990 Nissan 300ZX car. This has given Fraser a newfound confidence and a profound sense of purpose.

With the project car now restored to its former glory and having successfully passed its MOT, Fraser is not just looking forward to new adventures but is embracing life with renewed enthusiasm and excitement.

Yorkshire Man’s Powerful Message Following Rescue: ‘You Never Know When the Yellow Helicopter Might Be Coming for You’

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Steve Sadler, a 58-year-old avid runner, found himself in a potentially life-threatening situation whilst training for the Manchester Marathon in the picturesque Yorkshire Dales. His remarkable journey from crisis to recovery, facilitated by the Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA), will be featured in the upcoming episode of “Helicopter ER” airing on 27th October.

Committed to his rigorous training program, Steve embarked on a routine training run around his local village of Carperby near Leyburn. Just one mile into his run, he began to feel dizzy and unwell, eventually collapsing.

Upon regaining consciousness, Steve managed to carefully make his way back to his home, where his wife promptly called 999 for help. The YAA critical care crew, stationed at their Topcliffe air support unit near Thirsk, immediately dispatched their helicopter to reach Steve who was in a remote location.

Arriving at the scene, YAA Paramedics found Steve in a dire condition, lying on his living room floor, pale, clammy, and experiencing dizziness and nausea. During the 999 call, Steve’s heart rate was reported to be approximately 40 beats per minute, but an at the scene heart trace detected an alarming heart rate of 230 bpm, nearly three times higher than expected. His oxygen levels were also alarmingly low at 70, and his blood pressure was untraceable.

The YAA medical team administered medication to attempt to slow Steve’s heart rate down, remarking, “When we arrived, Steve was critically unwell. I have never seen a patient with this kind of heart rate still awake and conscious. I was deeply concerned he was going to go into cardiac arrest at this point.”

Steve’s condition continued to worsen during the short flight to James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough, 35 miles away. His heart rate surged to nearly 260 bpm, causing significant concern amongst the crew. Paramedic Georgina emphasised, “The concerning aspect of maintaining such an elevated heart rate is that the body’s resources become depleted rapidly. When your heart rate is elevated, it demands a significant amount of energy to sustain that rhythm. Once that energy reserve is exhausted, it often leads to a complete shutdown, with the heart coming to a halt.”

After six days in the hospital, doctors diagnosed Steve’s heart condition as a short circuit, requiring the installation of an implantable defibrillator. The ordeal forced him to take a three-month break from work and abandon his marathon training, much to his disappointment.

Steve shared his experience, “I went from feeling fantastic to suddenly overwhelmed by extreme dizziness and passing out. Somehow, I managed to make it back to my house – I am not even sure how I made it home, I was just determined to get home. The medical advice I received was crystal clear – no more running. It was a seismic shift in my life, given that running was my number one passion. Adapting to this new reality has been quite a difficult journey.”

He continued, “The sight of the yellow helicopter is a common one for many residents in rural North Yorkshire, particularly in the Dales. However, I never once expected to be the one needing its services. You never think it could be you. If someone had told me just hours before that I would be in an air ambulance en route to James Cook Hospital, I would have found it unimaginable. It’s a stark reminder that life can change in an instant. I am eternally thankful to the incredible team at Yorkshire Air Ambulance, and I’ll forever champion the outstanding work this charity does.”

Steve’s incredible story of survival serves as a powerful reminder of the vital services provided by the Yorkshire Air Ambulance and the critical role they play in saving lives, often in the most challenging situations.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance Rescues Vintage Car Enthusiasts in Dramatic Collision

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The Dramatic Road Traffic Accident is set to be featured on “Helicopter ER” on Friday 20th October

In an upcoming episode of the acclaimed TV series “Helicopter ER,” Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s critical care team (YAA) race against time in a critical rescue mission as they strive to save the lives of classic car enthusiasts, Geoff Walton and Chris Devos, who’s 1966 Humber Hawk Estate flipped on its side, entrapping the couple, following a serious road traffic accident.

En route to a leisurely lunch at a stately home near Barnsley, their day took a harrowing turn. A high-speed collision with another vehicle, recklessly driving on the wrong side of the road, struck the couple’s vintage car at a crossroad junction. The impact was so forceful that it sent their car careening across the road, and ended up against a tall roadside hedge, leaving their cherished vehicle overturned, with the pair trapped inside.

Dr Steve Rowe and paramedics Mikey Williams and Georgina Godfrey from Yorkshire Air Ambulance responded swiftly to the scene. In a country with nearly 33 million cars on the road, accidents are a common occurrence, and the air ambulance is often a critical lifeline. The speed of the helicopter enabled the medics to arrive at the scene just five minutes after receiving the initial 999 call at their Nostell Air Support Unit in Wakefield.

The vintage design of their classic car raised concerns about the extent of their injuries and made rescue efforts more challenging for fire and rescue services. The paramedics worked diligently to access the patients and provide the urgent care they needed.

Geoff and Chris were without the safety features of modern vehicles, such as airbags, crumple zones, and pretension seat belts, which likely exacerbated the severity of their injuries. Their sole means of restraint was outdated fixed seat belts.

The windshield of their vintage car was partially detached, allowing rescuers to communicate with the couple from the front of the car. Paramedics and rescue teams carefully extracted the couple from the wreckage on stretchers through the rear of the vehicle. They took extra precautions, moving slowly, to prevent any potential broken bones from damaging or puncturing major blood vessels, thereby avoiding further injury.

Their Humber Hawk Estate, dating back to 1966, was part of a historical year marked by a high number of road fatalities. In that year, the UK witnessed nearly 8,000 recorded road deaths, a stark contrast to today’s improved safety standards.

Once freed, the adrenaline of the crash wore off and Geoff’s pain significantly intensified. He required morphine, a powerful pain relief drug, to alleviate the discomfort, which centred around his hips.

After both patients were stabilised, they were transported to a local district hospital via a land ambulance for further treatment.

Geoff faced a six-month-long recovery journey, having sustained three hairline cracks to his pelvis, which are expected to heal naturally, while Chris broke her left arm, which was subsequently casted. Although the couple are set to make a full recovery, their beloved vintage car was irreparably damaged, leading them to replace it with a 1959 Humber Hawk Saloon.

Geoff expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the swift and professional response from Yorkshire Air Ambulance, stating, “We owe a huge debt of gratitude to the fantastic Yorkshire Air Ambulance team. They were incredibly quick and skilled, and it truly made all the difference. I also want to express my heartfelt thanks to the other rescue teams who helped us get out of that car on a very tough day. I’m grateful for the morphine that helped blur the memory of the accident. But what really matters is that my wife and I are okay, and we both feel incredibly lucky that our injuries weren’t more serious. It could have been a lot worse.

He continued, “Losing my vintage car was a real disappointment – They are very rare in the UK. However, I’ve since replaced it with a more powerful Super Snipe, and we’re eagerly anticipating new adventures and hopefully, accident-free memories!”

Biker with 30-Years of Experience Offers Profound Thanks to YAA for Critical Roadside Response

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Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) continues to demonstrate their unwavering commitment to saving lives. In an episode of “Helicopter ER” scheduled for Friday night, (October 20th), viewers will witness the tense rescue mission of Arthur Jepson, a seasoned biker with over three decades of experience, who found himself in a life-threatening situation during a leisurely ride on his Honda Goldwing motorbike.

Originally from London, Arthur made Yorkshire his home nearly four decades ago, residing in the South Yorkshire village of Harlington, near Mexborough.

On a typical summer day in August 2022, Arthur was en route to a gathering with his fellow bikers at a local club in Sheffield, a regular occurrence in his weekly routine. Choosing a different, more scenic route and riding at a slower, more cautious pace, he approached a junction when a collision with a car abruptly threw him from his bike. This unfortunate accident resulted in significant injuries, leaving him stranded in the middle of the road.

As Arthur lay injured on the road, Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s efficient response came into play. While on a transit flight back to their Nostell Air Support Unit in Wakefield following another mission, the YAA dispatchers swiftly diverted the helicopter crew to the incident, just 16 miles away. On board was Dr Steve Rowe and Paramedic Tammy Williams, ready to respond to the call for help.

Within a mere six minutes of receiving the initial 999 call, the medical team were at the scene, where they found Arthur in need of immediate medical attention.

Arthur was in distress, complaining of a severe shoulder injury and a laceration on his lower leg. His condition was critical – marked by clammy, pale skin, and dizziness, along with alarmingly low blood pressure that put him at risk of shock. In response to his pain, IV pain relief was quickly administered on-site.

Arthur’s hearing impairment presented a challenge for the medical team. The noisy roadside environment made it difficult for him to clearly understand the team’s instructions and questions. Effective communication is essential in these critical moments to ensure patients fully grasp the treatments being administered, respond to queries from the medical crew, and find comfort during distressing situations.

The team’s tenacity paid off when they successfully located Arthur’s hearing aids, securely stored in his motorbike seat, significantly improving communication, which provided comfort to Authur, whose keen sense of humour soon shone through.

Once Arthur was stable and showing improvement in his blood pressure, it was deemed safe to transport him to Rotherham General Hospital by road ambulance, just a short 5-mile journey from the accident site.

Scans conducted at the hospital revealed a dislocated shoulder. Under general anaesthesia, a surgical team skilfully manipulated his shoulder back into place, followed by a strict course of physiotherapy to enhance his mobility.

Arthur’s fellow bikers, a tight-knit community, rallied to the scene with a trailer to recover his beloved motorcycle. With unwavering determination, Arthur is now working on restoring his cherished bike and dreams of reuniting with his biking group once again for adventures on the open road.

Reflecting on his ordeal, Arthur said, “When I came off my bike, the pain in my shoulder was my biggest concern. I distinctly remember the immense relief that washed over me when I saw the YAA team rushing to my aid; right then, I knew I was in safe hands!  My heartfelt gratitude goes out to everyone who played a part in saving me that day.“

Emphasising the importance of proper safety gear, he continued, “I can’t stress enough how thankful I am for having all my biking gear on. It’s not just equipment; it’s a lifeline, and I am utterly convinced it spared me from even more severe injuries. You know, that’s the stark reality of biking – when a mishap occurs, most motorists go home for their tea, but we find ourselves going into the hospital. I’m determined to repair my bike, and this accident won’t waver my determination to get back in the saddle. Biking is not just a pastime; it’s a profound passion that I hold dear.”

This incident isn’t the first time that the YAA has come to his aid following a motorcycling accident. In 2021, he had a similar mishap, falling from his bike approximately a quarter of a mile away from his recent accident site. Fortunately, in that instance, he suffered no major injuries, only serious bruising.

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