Hampshire Air Ambulance In Storm Drama
The helicopter was forced to make an immediate landing after flying into bad weather.
The helicopter was returning to its base on the south coast when it suddenly flew into what was described as "extraordinarily" bad weather.
In lashing rain and high winds, with visibility getting worse, the team realised they needed to get to ground quickly and safely.
Duty pilot, Colin Martin, safely landed the helicopter and the crew on board, HEMS Paramedic Sophia Rozario and Doctor Fran Dolman, onto the south lawn of Broadlands in Romsey.
From the lawn, they were escorted into the House by Lady Mountbatten and family who provided some refreshments and refuge, until the storm subsided and they could take off once more.
CEO, Alex Lochrane, said: "I would like to extend my sincerest thanks to Countess Mountbatten and Lady Alexandra, who displayed the most wonderful hospitality to our crew following their impromptu visit. Mercifully rare, these landings are sometimes necessary when there is no other safe way to get around unpleasant weather. Should the crew be in a similar situation in future, it is comforting to know that they would be welcome with open arms at Broadlands Estate once again."
HEMS Paramedic, Sophia Rozario, said:
"As we were flying back to our Airbase, after attending an incident, we were faced with worsening weather conditions than anticipated, which meant visibility was significantly reduced. A decision was made by our pilot to discontinue the flight and that landing was the safest option. I don’t think any of us had realised where we had landed until the rotor blades had stopped. It was lovely to receive such a warm welcome from Countess Mountbatten and her family, especially after such an impromptu arrival."
Richard Jordan-Baker, a Director of Broadlands, said:
"It was certainly a dramatic scene as the yellow and green helicopter came into view through the lashing rain and swirling gale. Pilot Colin Martin’s skill and calm professionalism came into play as he dropped onto the lawn at the first opportunity of a flat, treeless space with some shelter from the wind.
It was a great pleasure for us all to meet the crew and learn more about what they do. More important, they landed safely. Following some warmth and tea they were safely on their way again.’’