NEW FOREST TODAY NEWS

Three celebrations in one

Air ambulance crew

Charities often celebrate milestones in their growth, but it is very unusual for one to celebrate three milestones, all at the same time.

This is the happy situation for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance. They've reached the 3000th mission since their first flight on 1 July 2007. Also, they've celebrated their fourth birthday since that first flight, and such is the rapid growth in the charity’s operations, that they are now flying 12 hour shifts during the summer months.

This is exceptional progress for such a young charity and is testament to the hard work and commitment from so many people throughout Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. The charity receives no government funding, and so relies solely on the generosity of individuals and business, who find fun and interesting ways to raise the £110,000 needed each month to keep the Air Ambulance flying and saving lives.

Cllr Barry Lipscomb, chairman of trustees said: " I am immensely proud of the Charity and pay a very warm tribute to all who work so hard for us, from our wonderful aircrew, through the staff at HQ to the ever increasing army of volunteers who are out there week after week raising both our profile and the funds essential to keep us flying; well done to each and every one. I pay special thanks to the literally thousands of Hampshire and Isle of Wight people who regularly support us through their generous donations; without them, we are nothing."