Archives: Team Members

Richie Campbell

Stephen Meet Richie, one of our Technical Crew Members (TCMs). Richie joined our team in February 2024. Proudly calling Sheffield home, Richie brings a wealth of experience and dedication to his role, ensuring the safety and optimal performance of our aircraft.

As a TCM Richie conducts vital pre-flight checks and procedures as well as providing valuable assistance to the Pilot during key flight phases such as take-off, approach and landing, in addition to aiding the medical team in the capacity of Emergency Care Assistant (ECA).

Before joining Yorkshire Air Ambulance, Richie served in the Royal Air Force (RAF), where he deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. As a Royal Air Force Regiment Gunner, his role was multifaceted, serving as a support medic and close support protection gunner to the Medical Emergency Response Team (MERT) during deployments to combat areas. His primary mission was to ensure the security and close protection of the medical team and deployed aircraft while evacuating casualties from battlefield and trauma-exposed environments.

Most recently, Richie worked as an ECA for Yorkshire Ambulance Service (YAS), operating from Sheffield Ambulance Station.

Beyond his professional commitments, Richie is an avid supporter of Sheffield United and dedicated his spare time to volunteering at a local animal rescue charity.

An interesting fact about Richie is that he once had the unique opportunity to share a pint with none other than Prince Harry during his time in the RAF!

Leanne Davis

Leanne Davis is one of our dedicated HEMS Paramedics who became an essential part of our crew in October 2023. Leanne’s roots are in Rotherham, where her passion for caring for the people of Yorkshire was born and bred.

Leanne’s motivation to join our team of HEMS Paramedics reflects a deep commitment to the well-being of the region’s residents. Her eagerness to attend a wide range of jobs pushes her to constantly learn and acquire new skills, highlighting her dedication. The prospect of soaring over the breathtaking landscapes of Yorkshire was also a compelling draw for Leanne.

Before joining YAA, Leanne dedicated four years of her career as a paramedic in Doncaster after completing her studies at Sheffield Hallam University in 2019. It’s worth noting that she wasn’t alone in this journey; her colleague Max, who joined YAA as a Paramedic at the same time, also graduated in the same class.

Beyond her professional life, Leanne finds joy in spending quality time with her family and her loyal canine companion, Bruno. A significant life event marked her journey to YAA, as she tied the knot while going through the interview process for her role, making the road to YAA all the more memorable. Leanne’s love for the outdoors is evident in her hobbies, which include hiking and open-water swimming. An interesting fact about Leanne is that she was part of a remarkable team of three who successfully completed the challenging English Channel swim. This accomplishment is a testament to her determination and teamwork.

Tom Chatwyn

Meet Tom Chatwyn, a highly skilled HEMS Paramedic at Yorkshire Air Ambulance, who became an integral part of our team in October 2023, before being promoted to his current role of HEMS Team Leader in October 2024. Tom’s roots are in Sheffield, but he now calls the picturesque Wharfedale valley in West Yorkshire home.

Tom’s motivation to join YAA reflects a deep desire for continued learning and a return to a frontline clinical role. After dedicating five years to education, he sought an opportunity to acquire new skills and collaborate with his colleagues in delivering high-quality critical care to the people of Yorkshire.

Tom’s extensive career in the field of paramedicine commenced in the early 2000s when he joined the London Ambulance Service. Over the years, he has contributed his expertise to various services, gathering a wealth of experience along the way. Prior to his secondment to YAA, he served as a Clinical Educator within the YAS academy, enhancing his clinical expertise.

Beyond his professional life, Tom enjoys spending time with his family and embracing the outdoors. Activities like bike riding, running, reading books, and exploring new places are close to his heart. Among his many adventures, Tom once achieved the remarkable feat of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, where the view from the summit left a lasting impression.

Chris Gibbins

Introducing Chris Gibbins, one of our dedicated HEMS Paramedics at Yorkshire Air Ambulance, who embarked on his journey with us in October 2023. Hull is both his hometown and current residence, firmly rooting him in East Yorkshire.

Chris’s path to YAA was paved with a passion for critical care and a wealth of aviation experience. For him, joining the YAA represents the perfect opportunity to be a valuable part of an established and highly respected team. His primary aim is to deliver an enhanced level of care, supporting ambulance crews on the road and providing the highest standard of care to the people of Yorkshire.

Chris’s remarkable career as a paramedic has deep roots. He began with the Humberside Ambulance Service in the early nineties, serving at Hull Central Ambulance Station. In 2003, Chris transitioned to become a Search and Rescue Helicopter Winchman Paramedic and Aircrewman with HM Coastguard. For two decades, he was stationed at bases in Scotland and Yorkshire, undertaking challenging search and rescue operations in mountainous and maritime environments. In June 2023, Chris made a full-time return to the Yorkshire Ambulance Service, based at Hull West Ambulance Station, before making his way to YAA.

Chris’s life is peppered with fascinating experiences. He once shared tea with the Queen at Buckingham Palace, a memory that undoubtedly holds a special place in his heart. He’s also stood at the most northerly point of the United Kingdom, Out Stack, situated in the Shetland Islands. Additionally, he proudly shares a family connection with the world of paramedicine, as his daughter is a Paramedic with YAS based in Hull.

Stewart Ashburner-Mcmanus

Stewart Ashburner-Mcmanus, is one of our HEMS Paramedics at Yorkshire Air Ambulance. Although originally from Bolton and remains a proud Lancastrian, he has warmly adopted Yorkshire as his home. While his surroundings may have changed, he still retains his distinctive Bolton accent and the firm belief that a bread roll is forever a “barm cake” in his eyes.

Stewart said, “Joining YAA was the logical step towards fulfilling my goal of joining the team and my career ambition of working in critical care and supporting the people of Yorkshire. The allure of flying is also extremely cool.”

He joined the paramedic profession in 2014, at the age of 29. After completing his paramedic training at Sheffield Hallam University, he found his professional home with YAS in 2016, based out of Huddersfield Ambulance station. Stewart’s path also included a secondment as a team leader in West Yorkshire before returning to operational duties, all in pursuit of his dream of joining the HEMS team. Alongside his YAS role, he actively participates in various motorsport events and holds additional qualifications in advanced life support and trauma care.

Stewart’s vision for his role encompasses a commitment to continuous growth. He aims to develop his clinical skills, leveraging the extensive experience of the HEMS team, collaborating closely with the charity, and raising awareness of the remarkable work they do.

Beyond his paramedic duties, Stewart thrives outdoors, firmly believing that there’s no such thing as the wrong weather, only the wrong clothing. He’s in the midst of converting a small van into a cosy camper to facilitate his exploration of the UK. His interests include enjoying holidays, attending music gigs, taking leisurely walks with his dogs, and embracing the exhilaration of motorbike rides.

Phil Larkins

Introducing Phil Larkins from Doncaster, an experienced pilot who joined our crew in October 2023. Phil’s journey towards the skies began at a remarkably early age, earning his Private Pilot’s License at age 17 before he held a full driving license.

His flying career has spanned the globe, commencing in the Royal Navy, flying the Lynx from Frigates and Destroyers. He later served in the Royal New Zealand Navy, where he completed an exchange tour in Australia. After leaving the military, Phil extended his wings to cover commercial operations in various parts of the world, from the Middle East to Iran, Sudan, Libya, and most recently Brunei.

Beyond his professional life, Phil treasures moments spent with his family and friends. He’s a keen cycling enthusiast, even if the great British weather occasionally presents challenges. The gym and golf also hold a special place in his leisure activities. He’s not a stranger to athletic feats, having competed in the London Triathlon on two occasions.

Phil’s life has been marked by extraordinary experiences, in a remarkable feat, he has touched down on an iceberg in the Antarctic Ocean, a testament to the incredible places aviation has taken him.

 

Sarah Pogson

Sarah Pogson is our friendly Merchandise Co-ordinator at Yorkshire Air Ambulance. Sarah is from the charming town of Holmfirth and forms part of our Marketing team. Sarah is responsible for our online shop, ensuring our supporter’s orders are sent out in a timely manner. Sarah also works closely with our fundraising teams, making sure they are well-equipped with the latest YAA merchandise for their stalls and events.

Before becoming an integral part of YAA, Sarah honed her skills in the fundraising and membership department of another charity. Igniting her passion for working within charitable organisations.

When asked about her motivation to join YAA, Sarah’s enthusiasm shines through. She said, “I feel so proud to work for the YAA. It’s a charity that plays such a vital role in saving lives across Yorkshire. I jumped at the chance of being a part of such an incredible team of people; it’s a true privilege!”

When she isn’t working, Sarah immerses herself in her love for the Yorkshire countryside. Riding her horse and walking her dogs are her most cherished activities. Her vibrant social life includes attending gigs and nights out with friends. But when Sarah just fancies a chilled night at home, you’ll likely find her indulging in a bowl of homemade pasta while watching Parks and Recreation, accompanied by a glass of wine.

An interesting fact about Sarah is her dedication to her ex-racehorse, Finley. Over the past three years, she has undertaken the task of retraining Finley, which has not always been a smooth ride, but Sarah considers Finley’s progression one of her greatest privileges and achievements. Hard work truly does pay off!

Paul Smith

Introducing Paul Smith, our youngest YAA pilot, who joined our esteemed team of pilots in July 2023, significantly contributing to the seamless transportation of our doctors, paramedics, TCM’s and patients on critical missions across the region.

Before becoming an integral part of Yorkshire Air Ambulance, he lent his expertise to the East Anglian Air Ambulance, where he started as a copilot and worked his way up to the role of Captain. Prior to that, Paul made his mark as a flight instructor in the scenic landscapes of Mallorca, Spain. There, he shared his passion for flying helicopters, teaching others the art of taking flight while also offering tourists private helicopter tours around the enchanting Mediterranean island.

Beyond the cockpit, Paul’s enthusiasm extends to the world of motorsports. As an avid fan of Formula 1, Indy Car, and NASCAR, he finds exhilaration in the high-octane world of racing.

When it comes to interesting facts, Paul’s claim to fame is that he once appeared on an episode of the hit ITV show, Love Island, where he provided a thrilling helicopter tour to a couple on the show for their final date. In addition, Paul’s party trick is that he knows all the words to the infectious pop song ‘Macarena’ (we will be testing him on this at our Christmas party).