High Sheriff honours for air ambulance

The life-saving crew of Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance have been presented with an award from the High Sheriff of Lincolnshire.

The award was presented to Chief Pilot Llewis Ingamells and Pilot David Kemp on behalf of LNAA’s clinicians and pilots. Throughout the pandemic, the crews have continued to deliver life-saving care to adults and children at the scene of incidents and accidents across Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire, day and night.

Llewis said: “The crew at LNAA are honored to receive this recognition from the High Sheriff of Lincolnshire. While it has been a tough year for everyone, we are extremely proud to have remained on the frontline throughout the pandemic.

“It is a real privilege to be Chief Pilot of this fantastic charity. All of our crew members take pride in what we do to help people on what could potentially be the worst day of their life.”

A second award was presented to Jamie Burtt, member of the Lincolnshire Air Ambulance County Appeal (LAACA), on behalf of all of those who raise money, donate funds or give their time to the charity.

Last year, LAACA raised an outstanding £80,000 with an online Christmas auction. When the Covid-19 pandemic prevented the auction from taking place in December, Jamey embraced the challenge and took the auction online, securing some incredible prizes including a VIP day with the Red Arrows.

He said: “We’re delighted to accept this award from the High Sheriff, not only to recognize the hard work of the LAACA committee, but also on behalf of all of the amazing people who raise money for LNAA. It has been fantastic to see so many generous people continue to support this wonderful charity during a difficult and uncertain time.”

The High Sheriff of Lincolnshire, Michael Scott, visited the charity’s new Headquarters this week to present the awards. He said: “I am delighted to present these awards to the Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance and the Lincolnshire Air Ambulance County Appeal, in recognition of their valuable service to the community. The awards also recognize the appreciation of the people Lincolnshire for their contribution in enhancing the life of the county.”

The life-saving work of the Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance has continued against a backdrop of rising mission numbers, while the charity’s income declines due to Covid restrictions. As a charity, LNAA receives no direct Government funding and relies on donations from generous members of the public to keep its helicopter flying and Critical Care Cars on the roads.

To find out more, visit www.ambucopter.org.uk