Hampshire Air Ambulance crew skydiving over Old Sarum for their service
They'll take to the South Wiltshire skies later today
A pair of brave crew members from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance are swapping their helicopter for a parachute today (Sunday 15th May).
HEMS Paramedics Nigel Harley and Dr Frances Dolman will be skydiving at Old Sarum in support of the charity they work for.
They'll also be joined by others choosing the 10,000 foot jump to raise money for the life-saving, which has its base in Thruxton.
Dr Frances Dolman said:
“We’re both very excited and equally as nervous. We’re used to flying at 2,000ft in all types of weather but never would we consider exiting the aircraft mid-flight.
“The support we receive from the public is amazing. Without them, we wouldn’t be able to provide life-saving procedures at the roadside, in people’s homes or places of work. We are so grateful to everyone who has supported us and allowed us to continue being there for people in our region when they need us most.”
Nigel Harley said:
“It’s a tough job at times but it’s incredibly rewarding, especially when we see a young child that’s been critically ill and is now at home with their family. The team has amazing individuals who are all dedicated in bringing innovative medicine to our patients and their families.”
It costs £15,000 every day to keep Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance flying and its Rapid Response cars on the road.
They get no Government or lottery funding for the service, relying solely on donations from the public.