AS with all emergency services, the work doesn’t stop over Christmas for Devon Air Ambulance, which has launched its Lift A Loved One campaign.

The campaign is a reminder that although the Christmas period is traditionally a time when we spend time with our loved ones, for others it can be a time when those same loved ones need help due to accident or illness.

The Charity is hoping to raise an additional £2,512 (the date of Christmas Day) in acknowledgement of the 12 crew members who are working on Christmas day to help ensure that Devon’s patients get the timely emergency support they need.

“Last year it cost £6.4 million to keep Devon’s Air Ambulances flying,” says Fundraising and Communications Director, Caroline Creer.

“That’s a lot of fundraising activity and generosity, which is 100 per cent down to our incredible supporters, who make so much difference to the lives of the people of Devon.”

This Christmas, 12 members of Devon Air Ambulance crew: pilots, paramedics and HEMS desk dispatchers, are spending time away from their own families to look after the loved ones of others.

The campaign seeks to raise awareness of the importance of Devon’s Air Ambulances to the county and to boost fundraising efforts during the festive period.

The campaign features interviews with the aircrew in a short film, and a “12 Crew of Christmas” countdown that introduces those crew members working on Christmas day.

“We all want our family members to be with us at Christmas time - not heading to hospital in one of Devon’s Air Ambulances, or indeed working like many of our fantastic crew and other emergency services,” added Caroline.

“Our campaign is a reminder that whilst many of us will be taking a well-earned break to enjoy the company of family and friends, others are less lucky; emergencies don’t stop because it’s a special date.

“Someone’s loved one may need a lift - and a gift from our supporters means we’re here should the need arise.”

If you would like to help Devon Air Ambulance to reach its £2,512 target, you can support the Charity by visiting: www.justgiving.com/campaign/DAALiftaLovedOne and watch the short film now at: http://bit.ly/LiftALovedOne .