Air Ambulance fundraisers thanked

Everyone who raised funds for Devon Air Ambulance is being thanked for their hard work and dedication, as the Trust’s new helicopter takes to the skies over the county (pictured right).

It also means the charity’s ‘old’ helicopter has relocated to the service’s North Devon airbase at Eaglescott near Burrington. This means that Devon now has two aircraft with full night vision capability, another huge benefit when the crew are called out to a medical emergency in the hours of darkness.

Ian Payne, Flight Operations Director explains, “We are absolutely thrilled to bring the Airbus H145, thanks to the people of Devon. Their determination to raise the funds needed, coupled with our determination to deliver this magnificent aircraft, means we now have state of the art flight systems and much improved space available to treat and convey patients.”

Critical Care Paramedics are on site from 7am until 2am waiting for a call, and can be airborne and on their way to assist their patient within just 2 minutes.

Pilot Craig says, “The new helicopter contains vital safety information which enables us to plan and make the best decisions possible to fly our medical team, and our patients, safely to our destination. I would like to thank our supporters for all they have done to enable us to welcome this new helicopter to the fleet, without them it would not have been possible.”

Linda Gilbert (left) has raised almost £10,000 for Devon’s air ambulance service since the start of the pandemic, by making fabric face masks.

“I am from a Devon family and am very proud of my county,” said Linda. “I have been so heartened by everyone’s overwhelming support. 2020 was a difficult year, but a year where there has been a very positive and rewarding outcome from my sewing machine and me!”

Devon Air Ambulance Trust will soon reveal plans for a fun new fitness fundraising event, which will take place this spring.

Photo: Stephen Hampson