Pip Machin from the charity delivered a whole school assembly this morning and then this afternoon classes ventured up to the Cricket Club to see the Helipod and have a seat where the paramedic would sit in a real aircraft.

Robin from the charity told the children all about the capabilities of the helicopters and the vital role they play in our area.

The Air ambulances tend to fly at 12,000ft but can go up to as high as 28,000ft. They have 1 new aircraft too, the new model enables a paramedic and Doctor to sit in the rear with the patients ensuring that hospital grade care is delivered whilst on board. The are able to deliver intravenous drugs and intubate patients should they require that advanced level of care.

The Air Ambulance also carries blood which they collect from the QE regularly meaning they are able to give that vital source of life too, should they not require it, it is returned to the QE where it is used there, so no product ever goes to waste!

The Helicopters are flown by ex military pilots meaning the charity doesn't have to spend excessive amounts on training, they are already highly skilled in the field. They also don't fly at night unless they have to, as it is more dangerous to do so. during night time hours the critical care cars are dispatched and they carry exactly the same amount of kit and resources as the helicopters, including qualified Doctors and Paramedics.

Each air craft and vehicle carries £150,000 worth of life saving equipment!

I'm sure you will agree that the money we have raised today along with the awareness in our children has truly gone to a worthy charity.