Great Western Air Ambulance Charity (GWAAC) have launched an urgent COVID-19 Recovery Fund appeal, after they have seen a quarter of a million drop in income due to the pandemic.

With many fundraising events cancelled due to the restrictions over the last year, the local charity have been unable to bring in their usual level of vital funds. Yet, their crew continue to be here, responding to those in urgent need at a moment's notice.

During the height of the pandemic, the charity's crew of Critical Care Doctors and Specialist Paramedics remained operational, stepping up to support their NHS and frontline colleagues in the fight against the virus. Their crew stepped in to perform inter-hospital transfers of critically-ill intensive care patients to relieve the pressure on local hospitals, as well as providing a 24/7 trauma advice line to local paramedic crews during the busiest months.

Despite people staying home for much of the year, the charity were called out to over 1,700 patients in 2020. As things return to 'normal' and restrictions are easing, they are busier than ever before. From 12 – 18 April, the crew saw their busiest week on record, receiving 52 call-outs across seven days.

Medical Director at the charity, Dr Ed Valentine, said: "This last year has been tough on everyone, but it has been especially testing for the crew, who have worked tirelessly to save lives in your community. Now, as restrictions start to ease, we're facing a very different challenge – a rise in the number of patients who need us.

"As people get back into their cars for their daily commutes, take their summer 'staycations', and flock to our beaches, there will be no rest for us."

Each call-out costs the charity around £2,000 on average, meaning their fundraising loss could have covered over 100 lifesaving missions. Each year, they need to raise over £4 million to remain operational, and rely entirely on charitable donations to do this.

"We were here throughout the pandemic and we are still here now. We are ready to serve you – but we can only do it with your help. So we are asking you to support our COVID-19 Recovery Fund, and ensure we continue to be here for those in need."

If you would like to support your local air ambulance's appeal, click HERE to find out more or to donate