General

Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) is delighted to announce its participation in the heartwarming “Teddy’s Loving Care” campaign, an initiative run by West Yorkshire Freemasons. This collaborative effort aims to provide comfort to children facing anxiety and distress due to traumatic situations.

The Freemasons’ TLC (Teddies for Loving Care) scheme, which began 15 years ago, originally began delivering cuddly teddy bears to hospitals, offering a soothing distraction and a calming influence during paediatric medical examinations. The program, funded by West Riding Masonic Charities, has consistently supplied hospitals across North, South, and West Yorkshire with a box of teddy bears every month since 2008.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance, which regularly attends to trauma patients, including children, recognises the tremendous impact that these teddy bears can have on young patients in traumatic situations. As part of this campaign, YAA will offer teddy bears to children who require a flight to hospital and to former patients who visit the Air Base following their recovery.

Keith Bradley, Director of West Riding Masonic Charities Limited and TLC coordinator for the province, emphasised the significance of extending this support to Yorkshire Air Ambulance, saying, “Caring for children in their moments of anxiety and trauma is at the heart of the TLC campaign, and it’s only natural for us to extend our support to Yorkshire Air Ambulance. Currently, we provide 18,000 bears annually to 17 hospitals, and the feedback from the children who have received them is incredibly heartwarming and highlights the teddies importance.

The work of the air ambulance is undeniably crucial, especially in serious incidents involving children. We are absolutely thrilled to have them join our campaign and are dedicated to continuing our support for their invaluable cause.’

Marianne Haworth, Grants and Partnerships Manager at YAA expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We are delighted to participate in the ‘Teddy’s Loving Care’ campaign and express our heartfelt appreciation to the West Yorkshire Freemasons for inviting YAA to be part of this significant initiative and for their unwavering support. This campaign seamlessly aligns with our mission to provide comfort and care to those in their time of need.”

This isn’t the first time that Yorkshire and West Riding Freemasons have shown their support for Yorkshire Air Ambulance. They have previously offered financial support by sponsoring one of the two Yorkshire Air Ambulance Promotional vehicles, specially designed and built to bring a state-of-the-art educational supporter experience into communities throughout Yorkshire.

These units are equipped with interactive technology, including replica cockpits with curved screens displaying aerial footage of the views the YAA crews experience while flying in the air ambulance helicopters. The units also feature interactive iPads for an immersive user experience and a seating area where supporters can chat with YAA staff and volunteers.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance and the West Yorkshire Freemasons are excited to come together in this compassionate endeavour, further solidifying their commitment to the well-being of the communities they serve.

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!”

Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) continues to demonstrate their unwavering commitment to saving lives. In an episode of “Helicopter ER” scheduled for Friday night, (October 20^th), 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.

For more YAA news, click here. 

17 ASDA stores across West and South Yorkshire have joined forces since May 2023 to champion Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA), the region’s dedicated emergency response charity. Their combined efforts have already raised an astounding £20,000 and counting.

This remarkable achievement highlights the unwavering commitment of both Asda employees and the local community to bolster the life-saving service, contributing to improving patient outcomes.

In a remarkable show of support, ASDA employees bravely participated in a sponsored skydive in June, fearlessly leaping from 10,000 feet to secure the vital funds.

In addition to other in-store fundraising initiatives, Asda has been a steadfast partner, hosting YAA Clothing Banks at 20 stores across Yorkshire since the inception of the YAA recycling scheme. These clothing banks play a pivotal role, not only in promoting recycling and sustainability but also in contributing over 20% of the charity’s annual recycling revenue, further fuelling its mission.

As an independent charity, Yorkshire Air Ambulance, relies heavily on the generosity of the public and fundraising initiatives to sustain its life-saving operations.

As a testament to their ongoing commitment, Asda has pledged to continue their support throughout the remainder of the year, scheduling bucket collections at their stores, inviting the YAA fundraising team to visit with their promotional vehicle, which features a replica cockpit simulator for shoppers to enjoy, and are exploring the possibility of another thrilling challenge event in the coming year.

The partnership between Asda and YAA has thrived over the past decade, with YAA proudly displaying Asda’s logo on its helicopters since 2014 as a tangible symbol of gratitude for their dedication and support.

During a visit to the YAA Nostell air base, where Asda employees learned more about the charity and presented the crew with a cheque for the funds, Tom French, a senior director at Asda, shared his thoughts on this extraordinary achievement, he said, “We set a target equivalent to a day’s running costs, and I’m incredibly proud of our team for surpassing this goal. Everyone has truly excelled, and we are genuinely thrilled with their exceptional efforts. Yorkshire Air Ambulance holds a special place in our hearts, and we are wholeheartedly committed to continuing our support.“

Regional Fundraising Manager for West & South Yorkshire, Vickie Cowan, said, “ On behalf of Yorkshire Air Ambulance, I want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the incredible ASDA teams across West and South Yorkshire, as well as the local community, for their unwavering support. Their dedication to achieving their fundraising goal is truly inspiring and significantly contributes to our ongoing mission to save lives. We are thrilled to have the backing of ASDA, and together, we remain committed to making a meaningful difference for those in need.”

In a high-stakes episode of the acclaimed TV series ‘Helicopter ER,’ Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s critical care team (YAA) once again demonstrates their extraordinary medical expertise. This time, assisting Damian Galloway, a resilient 50-year-old motorcyclist who survived a traumatic road traffic accident on August 7^th, 2022.

Damian was riding his motorbike at approximately 35 miles per hour when two cars in front suddenly executed an emergency stop just before a roundabout. Trapped and with nowhere to go, Damian collided with the back of one of the cars, catapulting him into the air before he landed on his back on the busy road.

Damian vividly remembers remaining conscious throughout the entire ordeal, a situation where maintaining composure is of paramount importance. An off-duty police officer, coincidentally present at the scene while en route with his family for an afternoon at the coast, promptly halted and stayed with Damian. He played a crucial role in keeping him composed, ensuring he remained still, holding his head in place, and promptly alerting the emergency services.

The Dispatcher at YAA’s Nostell Air Base in Wakefield swiftly deployed the helicopter, carrying paramedics Andy and Steve to the accident scene located just North of Malton along a major road leading to the Yorkshire Coast. Given the anticipated arrival time of over 30 minutes for the land ambulance, the helicopter’s remarkable speed played a pivotal role in ensuring a rapid response to Damian’s situation.

Arriving first at the scene, the experienced critical care crew immediately assessed Damian’s condition, harbouring concerns about his chest, abdomen, and the possibility of spinal complications. To alleviate his pain, morphine was administered at the scene.  Thankfully, Damian’s commitment to safety by wearing the correct protective gear played a pivotal role in mitigating more severe injuries.

Damian, who works as a professional tennis coach, knows that accidents like this could have a devastating impact on his sporting career. After it was determined that he was stable, the decision was made to transport him to Scarborough Hospital by road.

Medical examinations later revealed that Damian had suffered five broken ribs and severe bruising, leading to a painful three-month recovery period. Despite the challenges he faced, Damian is immensely grateful to YAA for their swift response and to the off-duty police officer for his invaluable assistance in a moment of crisis.

Damian shared his thoughts on the incident, saying, “I can vividly recall every moment of my accident. I found myself lying on the curb, overwhelmed by panic, and fearing I had broken my back due to the excruciating pain. I am profoundly grateful to Yorkshire Air Ambulance; their swift response was absolutely instrumental on that day, and their dedication is truly incredible. I also want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the police officer who selflessly stopped to help. He had plans with his children, yet he played a key role in keeping me calm and collected during a daunting experience.

I am immensely indebted to everyone who came to my aid, and I consider myself fortunate that they were there for me. Today, when I venture out on my bike, even if it’s just a short trip to the shops, I ensure that I wear all my safety equipment. Sometimes, it may seem excessive for such a brief ride, but I’m acutely aware that many accidents occur within a few miles of your home, where you tend to be more familiar with the roads and might ride faster. My message to fellow riders is to take the time to prepare properly you never know what could happen on the road and it is better to be safe than sorry; I believe I’ve become a better and safer motorcyclist as a result.”

Also featured in the episode, set to air at 9pm on Friday 13th of October, are three gripping incidents, including Damian’s serious motorbike crash, an unfortunate DIY accident and a distressing incident in which an 87-year-old man on an electric bicycle was struck by a car, resulting in significant injuries.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s Vital Role in Keith Thompson’s Life-Altering Accident Showcased in Upcoming “Helicopter ER” Episode

Keith Thompson, a then 72-year-old retired electrical engineer, will feature in an upcoming episode of the acclaimed TV series “Helicopter ER” as Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s critical care team (YAA) showcases their exceptional medical skills during the tense mission.

Keith was in the midst of a DIY project at his daughter’s home in the remote area of Sleights near Whitby when a serious accident occurred. While fitting a cooker hood above the hob, he slipped from his step ladder, severing his wrist on the sharp cooker hood and striking his head on the floor. This incident led to severe injuries, including a lacerated wrist, damage to major blood vessels and tendons, and significant blood loss. He also sustained a head injury during the fall.

Given Keith’s remote location, approximately an hour away from the nearest trauma centre, the situation was dire. Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s helicopter was quickly dispatched from its Nostell air base in Wakefield, flying 60 miles to reach Keith. On board were Sammy and Andy, the highly skilled HEMS Paramedics entrusted with Keith’s life.

Upon arrival at the scene, Keith’s condition was critical, he was pale, clammy, and his vital signs were alarming, with a dangerously low blood pressure that posed a risk of shock. He was in excruciating pain, and his lacerated wrist had caused substantial bleeding.

The paramedics swiftly administered IV fluids to stabilise Keith’s blood pressure. Recognising the gravity of the situation and the likely need for surgery, the medical team promptly decided that the best course of action was to transport him to the nearest trauma centre, James Cook University Hospital in Middlesborough, to minimise the risk of nerve damage.

Keith underwent emergency surgery on his wrist to repair seven out of eleven tendons in his right hand that were extensively damaged. While the accident has left permanent effects on the use of his arm and hand, Keith maintains a resilient spirit. He continues to contribute to his local community centre, determined to adapt to his changed circumstances.

Reflecting on the life-saving intervention, Keith shared, “I’m not one to be melodramatic, but with the amount of blood surrounding me, I could see my life slipping away right before my eyes; I knew I was in real jeopardy. The Yorkshire Air Ambulance team, alongside the dedicated local paramedics, played an utterly invaluable role in saving my life that day.

Although my hand won’t regain its former function, I am immensely thankful for their presence and expertise. I have so many DIY projects I want to finish around my home, but, for the first time in my life, I will have to entrust them to others, which is a source of deep sorrow for someone like me who has never relied on others for this type of work before.”

Also featured in the episode, set to air on Friday 13^th of October, viewers will witness three gripping incidents, including Keith’s unfortunate DIY accident, a serious motorbike pile-up near Malton, and a distressing incident in which an 87-year-old man on an electric bicycle was struck by a car, resulting in significant injuries.

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. 

Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s critical care team (YAA) have once again showcased their remarkable medical skills in a rescue mission involving Brendan Jackson, a 15-year-old promising cricketer. This inspiring story will be showcased in an upcoming episode of the popular TV series, “Helicopter ER,” which returns to screens on October 6th.

Known for his cricketing talent, Brendan was in the middle of a game at the historic Walton Park Cricket Club, near Wetherby when disaster struck. Whilst bowling his third over, Brendan’s studs caught in the crease, resulting in a horrific snapped ankle. The incident set the stage for an extraordinary response from YAA.

The call for help was answered swiftly as a YAA helicopter was dispatched from their Topcliffe Air Base in Thirsk, covering a 20-mile journey by air to reach the cricket pitch. The Walton Cricket Club, steeped in over a century of cricket history, became an unexpected scene for a dramatic rescue.

Upon arrival, YAA paramedics found Brendan on the pitch, supported by his mother, Diane Sharp, and a doctor who was present with the opposing team. The doctor had stepped in to provide immediate assistance and made the initial 999 call. Brendan’s injury was severe; not only had he dislocated his ankle, but he had also fractured both bones in his lower leg. This raised grave concerns with the medical crew about potential complications due to reduced blood supply and potential nerve damage.

To alleviate Brendan’s excruciating pain, Paramedics administered gas and air. However, the extent of his injury necessitated stronger medication. Ketamine was carefully administered, taking into account Brendan’s age and weight as he was still considered a child at 15 years old. Ketamine not only relieved Brendan’s pain but also had a dissociative effect, helping him cope with the traumatic experience.

With Brendan’s shoes and socks removed, YAA paramedics expertly realigned his leg using a mouldable vacuum splint, ensuring stability during transportation.

Looking back on his accident, Brendan said, “I remember my first reaction vividly; it was a mix of shock and fear. I just looked down, and all I could think was, ‘Oh my word, what has happened, and will I ever be able to play cricket again?’ It was a terrifying moment for me. When the Yorkshire Air Ambulance team showed up, it was a massive relief. They were like superheroes, and I’m so grateful for how they were able to take away some of my pain. I can’t thank them enough for being there.”

The decision was made to transport Brendan to Harrogate District Hospital via land ambulance, a journey of approximately 30 minutes. At the hospital, Brendan underwent surgery to pin and plate his ankle.

“It was a very traumatic day,” said Diane, Brendan’s mother, reflecting on the harrowing incident. “I didn’t see his leg initially; I just thought he had tripped. But once I heard him shouting in agony, I knew I had to rush over and keep him as calm as possible until more help arrived.”

Diane continued, “The worst thing for me was hearing him scream when they moved his ankle into the splint. It was heartbreaking as a parent to witness him in so much pain. But when I heard the air ambulance coming, I felt an overwhelming sense of relief. They were the first to arrive on the scene, and I knew they would be able to help relieve him of the excruciating pain he was suffering.” she shared.

Despite the challenges, his unwavering determination shines through as he plans to make a triumphant return to competitive sports in the near future.

In the upcoming Helicopter ER episode on October 6th, viewers will witness three gripping incidents, including Brendan Jackson’s remarkable rescue, a grandmother’s car accident, and a severe road collision involving a paramedic.

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.