General

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

To read more YAA News, click here.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

To read more YAA News, click here. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more YAA News, Click Here.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

To read more YAA News, click here.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

To read more YAA News, click here.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance, the renowned emergency response charity, made waves on social media this week with a remarkable sight in the skies above Wakefield and York.

Traditionally operating two helicopters, Yorkshire Air Ambulance recently took delivery of their two new state-of-the-art H145 D3 helicopters G-YORX and G-YAAA.  They will replace current models G-YOAA and G-YAAC, which are currently in the process of being sold to an undisclosed buyer.  During a fleeting cross over period of the arrival of the new helicopters and departure of G-YOAA, which leaves Yorkshire first, a unique, but brief opportunity presented for the team of pilots to capture the rare occasion where all four were in Yorkshire.

Seizing the opportunity, the crew took the four helicopters on a brief flight, incorporating some training & familiarisation for the Pilots & Technical Crew Members (TCM’s), treating onlookers to a unique and rare display.

Chief Pilot Owen McTeggart, who was part of the formation, expressed his excitement about the opportunity, saying, “We have eagerly awaited the arrival of G-YORX, our second D3 helicopter, which will further improve our service in saving lives across Yorkshire.  We needed to take the new helicopters out for some brief training and familiarisation so we took the opportunity to capture what may be a one-time occurrence of having a cross-over of four YAA helicopters, before G-YOAA and G-YAAC leave for their new home. Witnessing the community’s overwhelming response and support, and the countless photos shared fills our team with pride and gratitude. We are truly humbled by the generosity and dedication shown by the people we serve.“

The new D3 helicopters boast a whole host of technologically advanced features, most noticeably, a five-bladed ridged main rotor, making the system simpler, lighter, and easier to maintain than the previous rotor. The five-bladed rotor system also significantly reduces felt vibrations, improving ride quality for both patients and the crew.

The flight drew widespread attention from residents in Wakefield, Pontefract, York, and surrounding areas, who spotted the four helicopters flying in formation across, what were picture-perfect clear blue skies. Captivated by this awe-inspiring display, members of the community captured the moment and flooded Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s Facebook post about the flight with over 3,000 likes, 400 comments, and 500 shares, emphasising the profound impact this had on those fortunate enough to witness it.

The overwhelming response serves as a testament to the deep-rooted appreciation for the life-saving services provided by the charity. One person commented ‘Awesome sight to see. I heard them before I saw them. Keep up the great work, Yorkshire Air Ambulance. We’d be lost without you guys’ whilst another remarked, ‘I saw them fly right over my house, it was quite a sight to behold. What a job these guys do…I for one cannot thank the team enough!’.

To read more YAA News click here. 

Harrogate-based family fashion brand, Luce & Bear, has proudly launched their first charity collaboration in partnership with Yorkshire Air Ambulance, with 100% of the profits going towards funding future lifesaving missions across the region.

The unisex navy hoodie created by the talented sisters Lucy and Clare Bulmer, showcases an intricately crafted, hand-drawn design, based on the essence of the YAA’s lifesaving missions and the beauty of Yorkshire.

Within the design, a multitude of symbolic illustrations, each holding significant importance to the emergency response charity. From representations of the region’s four major trauma units to common accidents the air ambulance frequently attends, such as motorbike, bicycle, and horse incidents, the design also pays homage to the male and female crew who selflessly serve the community. All elements are brought together by a central helipad illustration, symbolising the crucial role Yorkshire Air Ambulance plays in saving lives from the sky.

The hoodie is available in sizes ranging from XS to 3XL and is designed to provide a true-to-size, comfortable, and flattering fit for all. Luce and Bear are dedicated to producing products responsibly and are committed to environmental, ethical, and equality practices. Each hoodie is PETA-approved vegan and manufactured in a WRAP-certified factory.

The collaboration between Luce and Bear and Yorkshire Air Ambulance began at Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s first Christmas lunch event in 2022. The sisters hosted a stall on the day, forming an instant connection with the YAA team through their shared dedication to charitable causes.

Bringing a unique prospective to the partnership, during the early stages of the collaboration, the Yorkshire Air Ambulance crew attended an incident concerning one of the staff members at Hebden Wood Equestrian Centre, where Lucy keeps and trains her Dressage horse. This personal encounter, so close to home, further emphasises Lucy’s connection to the charity and highlighted the importance of the YAA’s lifesaving work which influenced the final design.

The hoodie design inspiration was taken from Luce and Bears bestselling ‘healing hoodie’ which is an ode to Lucy’s ongoing battle with chronic Lyme Disease, aiming to offer strength, power, love, and luck to those facing their own personal battles.

Leanne Seward, Marketing and Brand Manager at Yorkshire Air Ambulance, expressed her delight with the collaboration, saying, “Working with Luce and Bear on this charity collaboration has been an absolute pleasure. Their dedication to creating meaningful designs that resonate with our mission is truly commendable. We are grateful for their support and the opportunity to partner with such a passionate and talented brand. Together, we are making a difference in the lives of those we serve“.

Following the creation of the hoodie, the sisters were thrilled to have the opportunity to present their design to the lifesaving crew during a visit to the air base. Their enthusiasm for the collaboration and the meaningful symbols incorporated in the design further fuelled the sisters’ passion for supporting the charity.

Lucy and Clare, who have over 20 years of shared retail experience said, “We are thrilled to have had the opportunity to collaborate with Yorkshire Air Ambulance on this meaningful project. As sisters and passionate designers, it has been a truly fulfilling experience to create a hoodie collection that not only showcases our love for Yorkshire but also supports such an essential lifesaving charity.

This collaboration is just the beginning for us, and we have big dreams to expand our range in the future. We can’t wait to see how people respond to our designs and join us in making a difference“.

Priced at £45 including delivery, each hoodie purchased directly via the Yorkshire Air Ambulance website contributes to supporting Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s crucial missions. Order your Yorkshire Air Ambulance + Luce & Bear hoodie now.

To read more Yorkshire Air Ambulance

The Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s flagship high-street pop-up shop located in St Johns Shopping Centre, Leeds, has hit an impressive £50,000 in sales since opening its doors in January 2020. This impressive milestone is a testament to the generosity and support of the local community, whose donations and purchases help fund the charity’s life-saving missions.

In 2022, the shop raised an impressive £25,000 and has continued to make a significant contribution to the charity in 2023. Within the first three months of this year alone, the shop has raised a fantastic £11,500, with shoppers showing no signs of slowing down.

Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Yorkshire Air Ambulance pop-up shop has managed to attract regular supporters, demonstrating the community’s unwavering commitment to supporting this worthy cause.

Located on the ground floor, just by the escalators, the shop is open from 10 am to 3 pm every Wednesday and Friday, with alternating Saturdays, and sells a wide range of items donated by members of the public. These include official Yorkshire Air Ambulance merchandise, hand-knitted baby and children’s clothes, adult & children’s clothing, books, children’s toys, bric-a-brac, records, and DVDs, among other interesting items.

The shop is led by Community Fundraiser Clare Deacon, who has a team of dedicated volunteers helping her throughout the week. Clare said, ‘We’re thrilled to have reached this milestone and want to thank everyone who has donated, volunteered, or made a purchase from our shop – Every penny raised goes directly towards funding our life-saving missions, it’s a testament to the generous community spirit we have here in Yorkshire.

With such a diverse range of items available, our shop is a great place to find a bargain and support a good cause at the same time. So why not pop in and have a look around? You never know what treasures you might find!’.

Centre Manager, Jenny Murphy, said, ‘We are incredibly pleased to see the YAA pop-up shop at St. Johns Shopping Centre having so much success. The store is always so busy and the team of volunteers are just brilliant with their customers, so to hear of them reaching this impressive milestone is not a surprise. I wish them every continued success in their sales for the rest of this year’.

Peter Sunderland, the well-known and long-standing Chairman of Yorkshire Air Ambulance has announced he is to retire after 19 years with the life-saving charity.

Peter who is from Huddersfield, will officially retire as Chairman and Trustee at the end of June. He joined the YAA in 2004 after retiring from his role at the RMC Group PLC, where he worked for over 27 years as one of their UK Directors, bringing with him a wealth of experience in senior management, monitoring & delivering of business targets, workshops, strategic development, financial & budgetary control, and project implementation. He became Chairman in 2006 and has since led the transformation of the Charity into the successful organisation it is today.

Peter commented: “I have been a Trustee of Yorkshire Air Ambulance for 19 years now and Chairman for 17 of those years, however, I feel now is the right time to step down from my role with the Charity. Therefore, I will be retiring as both Chairman and Trustee at the end of June.

When I first joined the YAA in 2004 it was a very different organisation from the one that it is today. We had one leased Bolkow helicopter that operated from a Portakabin at Leeds Bradford airport. The administration was carried out from a small office in Dean Clough Mills in Halifax. Income from donations was very small and hardly covered our costs. A different situation from the very robust and stable position that the Charity finds itself in today, and I am so very proud of how the YAA has evolved over the years. It has truly been a team effort.”

Peter has led on the implementation of many important milestones over the years including purchasing helicopters, developing the two air bases at Nostell and Topcliffe, and gaining the Charity’s own Air Operators Certificate – the first of its kind at the time.

Abby Barmby, Director of Marketing & Communications added “Peter has truly been the pillar of YAA for nearly twenty years now and will be greatly missed by us all. His caring, yet professional leadership combined with extensive business experience proved invaluable in driving a clear vision, purpose, and strategy for the charity over the last nearly twenty years. He introduced and implemented a robust financial accounting foundation which has been built on over the years, resulting in the charity being in the strong position it is today.  He really has made YAA the respected organisation it is, not just as our Chairman but as a true Ambassador too -a legacy we will all carry forward.

On behalf of everyone at YAA we’d like to express our heartfelt thanks to both Peter and his wife Margaret who has been a wonderful support to him over the years. We are indebted to them for all they have done for the charity during Peter’s tenure as Chairman.”

When Peter stands down at the end of June, current Vice-Chairman Mike Harrop will step into the role of Chairman from the beginning of July.

Mike brings a wealth of experience from his 30-year career in the RAF including being the Station Commander at RAF Scampton, the home of the Red Arrows. He also has an extensive and in-depth knowledge of YAA after initially joining as a volunteer back in 2017, before joining the Board in 2019, and taking on the role of Vice-Chairman in 2022.

Peter added, “I am delighted to be handing the Chairmanship of YAA over to Mike who I know will take YAA forward and build on what we’ve already established with a great team to support him.”

As well as his work with YAA, Peter has also been a member of the Wakefield Cathedral Council and is a past President and Subscribers Secretary of Huddersfield Choral Society. In 2007 he was appointed a Deputy Lieutenant of West Yorkshire and was awarded an MBE by HM Queen Elizabeth II in 2016 for ‘Voluntary service to the Yorkshire Air Ambulance and the community in West Yorkshire’.

For further information about YAA, please visit www.yaa.org.uk.