London’s Air Ambulance service is marking its 25th anniversary with an appeal to Londoners to make a small donation towards the cost of a “desperately needed” second helicopter.
Operated by a dedicated charity, the Air Ambulance was set up in 1989 after a report by The Royal College of Surgeons found too many people were dying on the streets unnecessarily.
The service has treated over 30,000 critically injured patients over its 25 years and says a second helicopter and additional crew would allow it to help a further 400 patients per year.
Londoners are being asked to visit londonsairambulance.co.uk/donate and support the fundraising.
CEO Graham Hodgkin said: “We are constantly looking for ways to enhance our world-leading service and by raising money to acquire a second helicopter and to recruit more crew we believe will be able to reach around 400 patients a year by air, simply the most effective way to deliver our advanced trauma team, giving them a better chance of survival.
“We urge the people and businesses of London to sign up as regular supporters to the charity to help us save more lives together.”
The appeal is supported by Mayor of London Boris Johnson who said: “Hundreds of Londoners have their lives to thank for the crew’s speedy and efficient treatment. I urge people living in our city to support this vital cause so that they may continue to save lives for many years to come.”
