by Alan Quick

DEVON Air Ambulance celebrated 25 years of the lifesaving service in style with two days of celebration at Darts Farm, near Exeter.

The first day, Saturday, September 9, took the form of an open day which included live emergency demonstrations and the landing of one of the two air ambulances that the charity runs.

The day also included live music, activities for children, pop-up shops, refreshments and games.

The second day, Sunday, September 10, was a celebration tea event for some of those who had helped the charity over the years, paramedics, staff, volunteers and many of those who had been rescued by an air ambulance since the service began.

Heléna Holt, CEO of Devon Air Ambulance said it was hard to believe the service was 25 years of age, but added that in that time it had 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 son; 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 added: “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.”

The Lord Lieutenant of Devon, David Fursdon, spoke at the celebration and presented long-service awards to many volunteers who help or helped by collecting donations or in the charity shops.