I have chosen for my Charity this year the Kent Air Ambulance Trust.
Whilst fortunately, I have never had to use their services, I have always admired the dedication of the all the Pilots and medical staff involved. It is reassuring to know that this service is available if and when any of us might need it.
Together with Surrey & Sussex Air Ambulance the Helicopter Emergency Medical Service covers the three counties using two helicopters, one based at Marden, Kent and the other at Dunsfold, Surrey. It is a comforting fact that it only takes a maximum of 20 minutes to reach any part of the 3 counties from one of the bases. The helicopters are called out on average 4-6 times a day.
As you can imagine running a helicopter does not come cheap. Each flight costs approximately £1,500 to £2,000 depending on the mission which adds up to about £1.7m a year to keep each of the helicopters in the skies. Despite this large cost there is no government support and the service is funded almost entirely by public donation.
The members of Chestfield Golf have always been very generous when it comes to supporting the Captains’ Charities and I’m sure this year will be no different. I hope that you will give generously during the year to keep this very important medical service flying. We all hope we never have to use it but if we do then it is good to know it will respond speedily to our aid.
Kent Surrey Sussex Air Ambulance – saving time –saving lives
If you wish to read more information please visit : http://www.kssairambulance.org.uk
Tony Faunch
Club Captain
Air Ambulance History (439 kB)