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Ladies and gentlemen, today we celebrate a remarkable milestone achieved by the Air Ambulance Service. After 20 years of dedicated service, they have completed their 50,000th mission. Covering Warwickshire, Northamptonshire, Derbyshire, Leicestershire, and Rutland, this charity has been a lifeline for those in need. Each mission costs an average of £1,700, and the charity relies on the ongoing support of the public.

One volunteer, Jake Elliott, shared his personal story of how the air ambulance saved his life following a road collision in 2019. Within just 13 minutes, he was at the hospital, a journey that would have taken much longer by road. Jake emphasized the importance of every second in critical situations and expressed gratitude for the air ambulance service, stating that without them, he might not be here today.

The Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance, established in 2003 and later expanded to cover additional areas, carries out an impressive average of five missions per day. Their skilled crew, including pilot Gary Spender, fly at speeds of up to 173mph (278km/h) to reach those in urgent need of medical assistance. The pilot highlighted the challenges they face in finding suitable landing sites, prioritizing "big, flat, green things without people on."

Philippa Gibbs, a critical care paramedic and base manager in Coventry, described her role in navigating the aircraft and providing medical support. She acknowledged the stress of the job but also expressed the rewards it brings, depending on the outcome for the patient.

As we applaud this incredible milestone, let us recognize the vital role played by the Air Ambulance Service in our communities. Their dedication, skill, and swift response have made a significant difference in countless lives. We salute their achievements and extend our heartfelt appreciation for their ongoing commitment to saving lives.For more details, read the full article at: https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-coventry-warwickshire-66189263