Since 2008, Derbyshire, Leicestershire & Rutland Air Ambulance (DLRAA) has been on hand to provide potentially lifesaving care to those who need it most.

Thousands of people across the three counties have benefitted from the Charity’s lifesaving service and on Wednesday 4th June, during National Volunteering Week, the Charity reached a significant milestone.

The service completed its 6,000th rescue mission. This amazing landmark has been made possible by the support of the Charity’s hard-working volunteers.

To celebrate, DLRAA’s paramedics, pilots and doctors are giving thanks to the volunteers who have made this possible.

Phil Bridle, critical care paramedic and airbase manager for DLRAA (pictured below, centre), said: “To reach 6,000 missions is a magnificent achievement. The fact that we have reached this milestone is testimony of the hard work of all of our volunteers. On behalf of all the crew, I would like to thank all of our volunteers who have made this possible and we sincerely hope that we can count on their support for years to come.”

Throughout National Volunteering Week, Chief Executive Andy Williamson has also been thanking the Charity’s volunteers by meeting them in its shops and personally praising them for their efforts.

One of those beneficiaries, who helped DLRAA reach 6,000 missions, is volunteer Richard Fletcher.

Richard (pictured below, right) said: “For DLRAA to complete 6,000 missions in six years, and in National Volunteering Week, is fantastic. This shows what a vital lifesaving service we provide and you never know when you will need us.

“Many people ask what volunteering is. To me it’s simple. It’s about choosing to give time to do something useful without getting paid. I would recommend this to everyone, whether this be through Derbyshire, Leicestershire & Rutland Air Ambulance or another charity close to your heart, which ever path you chose, enjoy it, don’t let it become a chore.”

Based at East Midlands Airport, DLRAA covers an area of over 2,000 square miles and a population of over 1.7 million people. Its state-of-the-art Agusta Westland helicopter is capable of reaching speeds of up to 185mph.

With each mission costing, on average, £1,700, the service needs more support from the general public to help continue to provide this lifesaving service for years to come.

To find out about the latest volunteering opportunities in your area, please visit the volunteering section or call 08454 130999.