DEVON Air Ambulance will be celebrating 25 years of lifesaving service in style at Darts Farm near Topsham on Saturday, September 9.

The celebration event will run from 9.30am to 4pm and, operations permitting, will include visits from both of Devon’s Air Ambulances and demonstrations by the emergency services.

There will also be live music, activities for children, storytelling, pop-up shops and refreshments.

Heléna Holt, CEO of Devon Air Ambulance said: “It’s hard to believe the service is approaching 25 years of service.

“In that time we have flown more than 24,500 lifesaving missions.”

She added: “It’s important to us to remember our roots. Devon Air Ambulance was born from great sadness.

“Ann Ralli tragically lost her son Ceri, aged just 18, in 1986, after he was knocked from his bike by a van.

“At hospital Ann asked if there was anything that could have helped save her sons; she was told that reducing the time it took to get treatment might have made a difference.

“At a time when she and the family were grieving Ceri’s loss, she set about finding out more about Air Ambulances and founded the Charity.

“In 1992 Devon’s first Air Ambulance flew into Exeter’s Cathedral Green, to be blessed by the Bishop of Exeter.

“Now 25 years on, the five-days-a-week, seven-hours-a-day service using a Bolkow aircraft has been replaced with a seven-days-a-week, up to 17 hours-a-day service (now flying up until midnight) with two state of the art EC135 helicopters, both owned and operated by the Charity.”

Heléna adds: “I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to everyone who has made the service and charity what it is.

“There are so many people who have made a difference and played an essential part; from past and present crew, staff, trustees, patrons and volunteers, to the community and businesses who have given their support over the years.”

She added “It’s important to look back and remember where we came from. However it’s now essential for us to look forward and see how we can further develop the service, improving patient care, up-skilling our paramedics, increasing flying hours and investing in the best equipment and aircraft for Devon’s needs.”?To find out more about Devon Air Ambulance and the celebratory party please visit the website: www.daat.org .

Alan Quick