ANGLIA
LIFTOFF
ISSUE 37 WINTER 2014 VOLUNTEER THANKS Supporters recognised at insight day
Page 20
FOREST FALL Gary airlifted after cycle crash
Page 5
Suggested donation £1.50
AWARD WINNERS Rescue service award for EAAA
Page 4
Ambulance service urges safety during dark winter days
WE NEED YOU TODAY YOU MAY NEED US TOMORROW
CHARITY NO.1083876
C l a s s i c S t o v e s & F i r e p l a c e s h a s b e e n s u p p l y i n g m u l t i - f u e l , w o o d b u r n i n g , gas and electric fires in a range of traditional and contemporary styles for over 2 0 y e a r s . O u r S t o w m a r k e t s h o w r o o m h a s l i v e w o r k i n g d i s p l a y s a n d s p e c i a l o f f e r s f r o m m a n y o f o u r l e a d i n g b r a n d s i n c l u d i n g J o t u l , S t o v a x , D o v r e , Y e o m a n , G a z c o , H u n t e r , C l e a n b u r n , D e l u s o , S c a n a n d V e r m o n t a n d u p t o 5 0 % o f f e x - d i s p l a y m o d e l s . • Fireplaces & surrounds
• Chimney renovation/building
• HETAS registered
• Large showroom
• Free home surveys*
• Accessories & logs supplied
• Design & installation service • Ample free parking
Call us on 01449 678659 or email on sales@classicstovesandfireplaces.co.uk www.classicstovesandfireplaces.co.uk *Free of charge to assess customer requirements (All fitting work undertaken by fully qualified installers)
Unit 16. Charles Industrial Estate. Stowmarket. Suffolk. IP14 5AH
WELCOME As we head into the depths of winter and the darkest months of the year, our ability to fly at night is more vital than ever. And it’s thanks to the generosity of our supporters that we are able to offer this service – meaning that more lives will be saved as a result. If you’ve received this copy of ‘Anglia Lift Off’ in the post then the chances are that you support us by playing the EAAA lottery, one of our most important ways of raising money. We’re delighted to send you the magazine as a thank you, but as every issue is now available on our website or as an app we are able to save the considerable postage costs if more people read these digital editions. Information about how to do this and opt out of receiving a paper copy can be found in the lottery section of our website. Please consider receiving the magazine in this way, but if you prefer to read a paper copy your support for our charity is still very much appreciated. It’s been a very exciting time for our lottery team. As we went to press, our accumulator prize had been building up gradually each week since it was last won at the beginning of February and at the end of October it stood at £19,000. Turn to page 18 to find out what happened! A big win on our lottery at this time of year could make a significant different to a supporter’s Christmas. This issue is published as we approach the festive season and once again this year we have been overwhelmed by the demand for our charity Christmas cards. And just as impressive and certainly much appreciated, are the donations that we receive after the holiday from people who have chosen not to send cards but give to a charity instead or who decorate their homes with lights to fundraise for us. Of course our doctors, paramedics and pilots will be on duty on Christmas Day, as they are on every day of the year. Last year we attended four patients on Christmas Day, two of whom were flown to hospital and three on Boxing Day. Our colleagues in the East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust (EEAST) have put together some helpful information about staying safe in winter, when the days are shorter and you can find this on page 8. Finally, I’d like to thank everyone who played a part in our insight day in September for volunteers and people who help us. We all have our reasons for supporting or working for this organisation and know how critical its work is, but our message is never reinforced more than when a patient tells their story. We’re extremely grateful to James Piercy for sharing his very moving experience. You can read more about the day on pages 20 & 21. All of us at EAAA hope that you have a peaceful Christmas and send our very best wishes for 2015. It is of course our 15th anniversary year and we look forward to celebrating it with you. I hope you find this issue of ‘Anglia Lift Off’ informative and inspiring and I thank you for supporting our work, because together, we save lives. Melanie Nightingale Director of Fundraising
CONTENTS Award for EAAA
4
Mountain biker’s airlift
5
Heart care campaign
6
Our Missions
7
Safety tips for shorter days
8
Forthcoming events
10
Hair today…
12
Anniversary approaches
15
Kerry’s brave challenge
16
Lottery News
18
Insight day inspires
20
How to help
22
CONTACT US
Your regional fundraiser: North Cambridgeshire/West Norfolk – Chris Donaldson 106 Culley Court, Bakewell Road, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire PE2 6WA. 01733 367208 email: christopher.donaldson@eaaa.org.uk South Cambridgeshire – Barbara McGee Melbourn Science Park, Cambridge Road, Melbourn SG8 6EE. 01763 262697 email: barbara.mcgee@eaaa.org.uk Suffolk – Nigel Donkin Whitehouse Distribution Centre, Whitehouse Road, Ipswich IP1 5NX. 01473 745007 email: nigel.donkin@eaaa.org.uk Norfolk – Klara Mears Hangar E, Gambling Close, Norwich Airport, Norwich NR6 6EG 01603 489406 email: klara.mears@eaaa.org.uk Bedfordshire – Kay Marter The Rufus Centre, Steppingley Road, Flitwick, Bedfordshire MK45 1AH 01525 718517 email: kay.marter@eaaa.org.uk General enquiries: 0845 066 9999 Website: www.eaaa.org.uk Email: info@eaaa.org.uk Lottery: lottery@eaaa.org.uk Charity number:
1083876
Editor: Clare Phillips liftoff@eaaa.org.uk Advertising: Marina Jacobs 07727 749208 Design: www.barberjackson.com Print: www.barnwellprint.co.uk The unavoidable CO2 generated from this paper has been reduced to net zero through verified carbon offset projects. Total carbon emissions for this publication are 5,628 kilos of carbon, this equates to 5.6 acres of forest protection for 1 year, or 18,324 car miles prevented.
Cover picture: Anglia One at Norwich (see page 4)
LIFT OFF 3
NEWS
KEEP UP WITH US
ONLINE
EAAA SCOOPS TOP AWARD
Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for regular postings about news, events and pictures. Find us on Facebook as East Anglian Air Ambulance Charity and on Twitter as @EastAngliAirAmb. We also have Facebook and Twitter pages for each of the four counties we cover and regularly share their content. Here’s what people have been talking about recently:
The work of EAAA won national recognition this autumn for our vital service in the eastern region.
Zoe King
The charity scooped the Rescue EAAA’s Mark Milsom and Diana Jakubowska Services Charity of the Year award in with the award. the Charity Today Awards following a year of unprecedented success. It was won after we received an overwhelming amount of nominations and consequent votes in the final from the British public. There was stiff competition from a raft of other high profile charities, and we’d like to thank all our supporters who voted to help make the award ours. The charity’s Head of Communications, Diana Jakubowska, said; “This award means so much to the team here, to receive recognition from the general public in the way that we have is unbelievable and a huge testament to the work being done at EAAA.” Chairman of Charity Today, Lee Rayment, said; “We are delighted that EAAA has been recognised by the public as providing vital support and care for those in need. It is an honour to head an organisation that can say thank you on behalf of the British public to recognise them as the ‘Rescue Services Charity of the Year’ with this award.”
JO JOINS US The greatest ambassadors for the work of EAAA are the patients the service has helped. Hearing their stories, whether through the media, ‘Anglia Lift Off’, or at fundraising events, is the best possible way of informing supporters of our work and explaining why it’s so vital to raise money to allow our service to continue. Recently we’ve appointed Jo Cartwright to be our Patient Liaison Officer to give people a point of contact within the organisation. Jo said: “In my role I hope to meet as many people as possible who have been in contact with us, so that I can relay your experiences back to different areas of the charity, our supporters and anyone else who wants a reminder of why we’re all here doing our bit to keep the helicopters flying. “It can also be a really important part of a patient’s recovery to meet the crew who helped them, and fill in some of the gaps they may have in their memory. “If you are one of the thousands of people who has benefitted from East Anglian Air Ambulance in some way I would be delighted to hear from you.” Jo can be contacted via email – Joanna.cartwright@eaaa.org.uk.
COVER PICTURE Our aircraft are on standby to fly in all but the most severe weather. This picture of Anglia One framed by a double rainbow was taken by pilot Neil Waller at Norwich Airport. Hard to believe it was a summer’s day! 4 LIFT OFF
3 years ago today I had an accident that changed my life. Without the EAAA it could have been much worse. Not a day goes by I am not thankful to them. This pic was taken of the scene that day.
@pandbeventing
My mission for the next 6 months: raising money for @ EastAngliAirAmb who saved my life in February #inspiration http:// www.justgiving.com/BethanyBrown4/
Hotpoint Factorygradedshop Peterborough Guys we all know what a fantastic job you do and we will be more than happy to supply you with a washing machine from the Hotpoint Factory shop. Happy to help.
@SculthorpeMill
Cabbage comp closed £55 raised in a week! Big thanks to all who supported us winner announced tomorrow @EastAngliAirAmb @NorfolkEAAA
Alan Smith
A brilliant Insight Day today at Elveden. Many thanks to everyone for making it such a success. I’m sure all of us, volunteers, donors and patients had a smashing time.
@julianhuppert
Great to chat to @CRC_College apprentice Annabelle McGinn, working at @EastAngliAirAmb. #celebratingApprentices
before untain bike o m is h g in Gary enjoy the fall.
AIRLIFTED FROM MOUNTAIN BIKE CRASH EAAA CC P Gary at t Rod ( foregroun d) attend he scene s to
When mountain-biking enthusiast Gary Butler suffered horrific injuries after crashing in a remote part of a Suffolk forest this summer, he wasn’t the only person at the scene that day to end up in hospital. While treating Gary’s injuries in the searing heat, EAAA Critical Care Paramedic (CCP) Rod Wells was bitten by a tick, developed Lyme Disease and was off work for more than two months. Fortunately both Gary and Rod have since made good recoveries and returned to work, but in each case, things could have been much more serious. Gary and his friend and colleague from work Jason Baggott both enjoy cycling – especially across country. That particular afternoon they had decided to take their mountain bikes out around an area near Eastbridge, not far from their homes in Leiston where there’s a downhill trail, which Jason hadn’t tried before. Gary explained: “We really only went there to get some action photos of us on our bikes. Unfortunately, on the very first descent, at the bottom of the hill I lost control of my bike, and to the best of my memory I was thrown over the handle bars. I landed on my head, breaking my helmet in 3 places, and then tumbled over onto my shoulder and onto my back. “Lying on the ground, although I felt a bit dazed, I thought I had just winded myself, so I lay there for a while, but after trying to sit up and finding it too painful I agreed we should dial 999.” Because of the remote location it was difficult to explain on the phone exactly where they were, so Jason cycled a couple of miles to a road to meet the ambulance. Meanwhile, due to the location, Anglia One had also been scrambled and the crew tried to search for Gary from the air. The pilot decided to touch down in a clearing as Jason and the crew from the land ambulance reached the scene and CCP Rod and Dr Antonio Bellini scrambled down the bank to Gary. Rod said: “Given the extent of his injuries from such a serious fall, Gary is very lucky to have made as good and quick a recovery as he has done. The conditions that day made things more difficult. As well as being in a remote area of forest, and at the bottom of the hill it was extremely warm and there were lots of midges about.” The clinicians on scene transferred Gary to a body board and prepared to airlift him to hospital. Jason meanwhile was trying to let Gary’s family know what had happened. Gary has nothing but praise for all his friend’s actions: “Jason
really was the hero of the hour, if he hadn’t been then I dread to think how long I might have been lying there injured before somebody found me. And having helped the ambulance teams reach me he then had to phone my wife Jackie and tell her what had happened, which wasn’t easy news to give.” Gary’s injuries included four fractured vertebrae, four fractured ribs, as well as chest, lung and other internal injuries. He was in hospital for a week and unable to return to work for nearly two months. He’s taken up pilates and gym work to aid his recovery. Meanwhile Rod, although aware that something had bitten him on the arm at the scene, wasn’t aware how serious it was until he went to hospital himself. After various blood tests which had to be sent to another part of the country for analysis, he was admitted with Lyme Disease, which has caused nerve damage and meant a slow recovery. Rod said: “If you are out and about in the forest try to keep your arms and legs covered, and dog walkers should check their pets too. Lyme Disease can be very nasty and a tick bite can be serious for a dog.” Gary added: “I was very sorry to hear about what happened to Rod. I am incredibly grateful to all the paramedics and the air ambulance crew for getting me to hospital so that my recovery could begin. When I got back on my bike for the first time since the accident I knew that wouldn’t have been possible without their efforts. I have started fundraising with a Mo-vember attempt at work and would like to ultimately raise enough money to pay for my airlift.”
LIFT OFF 5
DELIVERING EXCELLENCE East Anglian Air Ambulance has welcomed discussions on the treatment of cardiac arrest patients, published in the British Medical Journal recently. The article supported the need for immediate, good quality, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and advanced medical intervention at the scene, in order to give the best possible chance of survival after a cardiac arrest. This is exactly the treatment EAAA medics give to the people of East Anglia. Jonathan Benger, Professor of Emergency Care at the University of the West of England, and Consultant at University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, argued that patients in cardiac arrest are best treated by highly trained ambulance staff whom, he believes, ‘must be empowered to use their skills to optimise CPR, achieve early defibrillation, and deliver the best possible care at the scene, with no thought of transport until spontaneous circulation has returned’.
Professor Benger also warned that taking such patients to hospital before they have been stabilized may be actively harmful. Consultant Anaesthetist and EAAA doctor, Jeremy Mauger (pictured), agreed: “When a patient has been resuscitated following a cardiac arrest, they may be very unstable and require high levels of critical care. Attempting to perform CPR in a moving vehicle is extremely difficult and can detract from delivering consistent and high-quality treatment. It is therefore vital that patients are given advanced lifesaving treatment at the scene.”
I would really like to see CPR taught in all schools as part of the national curriculum.
Cardiac arrest outside of hospital is a common medical emergency experienced by about 60,000 people a year in the UK. Fewer than 10% survive to discharge from hospital. EAAA attended 289 cardiac arrest patients form January to August 2014, making up about a quarter of missions attended.
EAAA clinicians are able to work with ambulance crews to offer advanced CPR and defibrillation at the scene. They can also give other life-saving treatment by administering drugs, such as those that can keep blood pressure up and help to stabilize the heart rate. They also have access to advanced equipment, like automated compression devices, sophisticated ventilators and infusion pumps. As the EAAA medical team includes a doctor, they can intubate patients at the scene and therefore, take over a patient’s breathing; a procedure which may require an anaesthetic or sedation. Dr Mauger explained: “Out of hospital cardiac arrest outcomes are improving in countries that encourage members of the public to do early CPR and we should encourage this. I would really like to see CPR taught in all schools as part of the national curriculum. Sustained and good quality CPR plus early defibrillation make a real difference to cardiac arrest patients. Once compressions have been established, EAAA medics can work together with land ambulance crews to use their advanced equipment and training to give the patient the best chance of survival.”
6 LIFT OFF
RECENT MISSIONS We publish details of as many of our missions as possible on our website, where you can also find our new mission map, and some will also be featured on our social media sites. It’s not possible to mention them all in ‘Anglia Lift Off’ but we hope this page gives an insight into the variety of incidents our crews attend. If you take pictures of either of our helicopters out and about we are always pleased to receive them and, with permission, endeavour to use them in our magazine or online. Send your pictures to liftoff@eaaa.org.uk
FACTS AND FIGURES SINCE OUR LAST ISSUE
The longer daylight hours in summer mean that, of course, during this time we will fly fewer ‘after dark’ missions but in July, August and September we still flew 49 night vision flights – although a number of these would have been for training purposes. During July Anglia One flew 72 times and Anglia Two 115. Between them our crews treated a total of 198 casualties at the incidents they went to. Most of the patients we saw were treated at the scene by our clinicians before being transported to hospital by road but 22 people were airlifted.
M I S S ION A man was flown to hospital after suffering a serious sporting injury. Dr Victor Inyang and Critical Care Paramedic (CCP) Simeon Tomlinson treated the man at the scene in Happisburgh (above) before he was airlifted to hospital in Norwich.
M I S S ION
M I S S IO N Anglia One landed on a playing field outside the former station, now used as an educational building in Corpusty, Norfolk, to attend to a woman who had suffered a serious injury in a fall. After treatment from the crew she was transferred to hospital by road.
MISSION A man in his 70s who had suffered serious injuries after a fall from a ladder near Peterborough was treated at the scene by the crew of Anglia Two, who then travelled in the land ambulance to continue treating him on the way to hospital.
MISSION The night-time crew of Anglia Two airlifted a teenager to Addenbrooke’s Hospital after he suffered serious injuries in a road traffic incident in Luton.
MISSION
A total of 108 casualties received treatment from one of our air ambulance teams in August. Anglia One helped 55 patients and Anglia Two 53. Patients were flown to hospital in about a fifth of these cases. In September we flew 144 missions, 63 carried out by Anglia One and 81 carried out by Anglia Two. The most attended incident type was a road collision and we took 20 people to hospital by air.
Happiburgh
A man who had suffered a serious injury in an agricultural incident was airlifted to the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital by Anglia One. The doctor and paramedic worked with colleagues from the ambulance service and an off-duty nurse to treat him at the scene.
M I S S ION Anglia Two was called to Bury St Edmunds after a man fell from a building and suffered multiple injuries. He was treated at the scene by Dr David Driver and CCP Gary Spitzer before being taken to hospital by road.
M I S S ION A cyclist injured in an early morning collision with a car in Cambridgeshire was treated at the scene by the crew of Anglia Two before being taken to Addenbrooke’s Hospital by road with serious injuries.
A lunchtime road accident on the A11 saw Anglia One tasked to Snetterton. A man in his 20s had suffered multiple injuries and was treated by the air ambulance clinicians then taken to hospital in a land ambulance.
MISSION A young child who had suffered multiple injuries in a fall was airlifted to hospital by Anglia One. The pilot touched down close to Great Yarmouth seafront to allow Dr Pam Chrispin and CCP Carl Smith to treat the casualty.
LIFT OFF 7
STAY SAFE
WISE UP FOR WINTER ADVICE FOR FAMILIES INCLUDES: your child what they know ❆ asking about being safe as a pedestrian or cyclist; this helps you pick up gaps in their knowledge you can address the route they’d take if ❆ practice walking with you or alone and learn the dangers about where you drop ❆ thinking off your child if they don’t walk to school, and how you can make it safer for them they know to cross the ❆ ensuring road at a safe place. For more advice on road safety for all, visit http://think.direct.gov.uk/
Our colleagues in the East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust (EEAST) frequently issue advice that might be useful if you are unfortunate enough to have an emergency situation requiring a 999 service. As this issue of ‘Anglia Lift Off’ covers the months of the year when the days are shortest and the weather could be at its worst we’re happy to share that advice here. Although we provide air ambulance cover after dark our colleagues from EEAST will usually be the first on the scene of an incident. We hope by sharing their tips and information that our supporters will stay safe during the winter months whether at home or out and about. More information is available on the EEAST website www.eastamb.nhs.uk, from where a winter campaign leaflet may also be downloaded. A spokesperson for EEAST said: “Winter can be a tough time with lots of germs around and additional risks when travelling as a result of the hazardous weather conditions. It’s an incredibly busy time for the ambulance service so we’re urging people to think about and look after their health, to help reduce the chances that they will need to call us. Above all we want as many people as possible to have a safe winter.” With darker mornings and evenings it’s important to ensure children travelling to and from school also stay safe. 8 LIFT OFF
If you do need to call 999 during the winter one of the most important things to do is to make it as easy as possible for an ambulance to reach you in the dark. Every minute saved is vital to a patient’s chances of survival but unfortunately crucial seconds or minutes can be lost driving up and down long roads looking for properties. In Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire, 286 road collisions involving children aged five-16 were reported to the service during the last school year. Locality Director Matt Broad said more can be done to reduce the number. “Our ambulance crews attend thousands of traffic collisions involving pedestrians a year, and many involve children. “Thankfully serious accidents are on the decrease nationally thanks to better education about safety, and of course safer vehicles and roads. But we still attend too many so it’s important children remember the safety basics.”
EEAST has the following advice on being prepared, should you need to call 999 for someone after dark: sure your house name or ❆ Make number is visible from the road on an outside light and put ❆ Switch the hazard lights on a car parked in the drive or road someone is available, send ❆ Ifthem outside to flag down the ambulance in a remote area, keep ❆ Iftheyougridlivereference of your home by the phone in case you need to give it to the 999 operator the operator of any ❆ Tell ‘landmarks’ nearby that might help an emergency vehicle find your house, such as a phonebox, layby, bus stop or other building. If you’d like to find out more you can access the winter advice on EEAST’s website, and where possible spread the vital health messages with friends and family who may not be online.
2014 11 EA Air Ambulance_Layout 1 04/11/2014 10:23 Page 1
UFFORD PARK WOODBRIDGE
Ice Skating & Christmas Market
The ‘coolest’ place in Woodbridge Take a stroll round the festive market stalls, endulge yourself with mulled wine and mince pies, and soak up the Christmas atmosphere.
Sunday 21st December FREE ENTRY
2pm - 9pm
Ice Skating Charges (Time slots are limited and must be pre-booked)
Child Adult Family Family
£3.50 (Toddler - 12 years old) £5.00 £10.00 (1 Adult & 2 Children) £12.50 (2 Adults & 2 Children)
t 0844 847 9491 w www.uffordpark.co.uk Yarmouth Road, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 1QW
FAKENHAM RACES - 2014/15 2014 race dates Tuesday 18th November Sunday 21st December 2015 race dates New Year’s Day, 12.30pm Tuesday, 13th January, 1.00pm
Thursday, 22nd January, 1.30pm Friday, 13th February, 1.30pm Monday, 2nd March 2.00pm Friday, 13th March, 2.20pm West Norfolk Point-to-Point, 19th April, 2.00pm Easter Monday, 6th April, 2.00pm
Tuesday, 5th May 2.20pm Sunday, 31st May 2.30pm Friday, 9th October 2.00pm Wednesday 28th October 1.30pm Tuesday, 17th November, 1.00pm Sunday, 20th December, 1.00pm
FIRST RACE TIMES PROVISIONAL Admission from £10 per adult, 17 years and under accompanied by an adult FREE
www.fakenhamracecourse.co.uk (01328) 862388 The Racecourse, Fakenham, Norfolk NR21 7NY
LIFT OFF 9
V
E
N
T
S
We are very grateful for the huge number of events that are organised to raise money for EAAA every year by our wonderful supporters. Although we can only feature a small number in ‘Anglia Lift Off,’ you’ll find a full diary of fundraising activities on our website www.eaaa.org.uk/events. If you are organising an event please contact us and we will help you promote it. We have fundraising teams across the region (see page 3 for contacts) who would be happy to support you.
E
SUNDAY 14 DECEMBER
CHARITY CHRISTMAS CONCERT
THE QUEEN’S HALL, WATTON, NORFOLK Songs, music and favourite Christmas Carols will be on the programme for this afternoon festive fundraiser in aid of EAAA. The Taverham Band and The Poringland Singers are the stars of the show. Tickets must be purchased in advance and cost £10 for adults and £6 for children. More details are available on 01953 881234.
WEDNESDAY 28 JANUARY
‘PIRATES OF PENZANCE’ KING’S LYNN ARTS CENTRE
The West Norfolk Gilbert and Sullivan Society has very generously chosen EAAA as the charity to benefit from the opening performance of this production, which is generously sponsored by Pil Membranes Ltd of King’s Lynn. Come along and enjoy this fun packed show for all the family. Tickets are £13.50, £12.00 concessions and £6.00 students. They are available from the box office on 01553 764864 or www.kingslynnarts.co.uk The show runs until Saturday 31st and other charities will benefit from subsequent performances.
SATURDAY 3 JANUARY DANCE-ATHON, ACLE, NORFOLK If you want to get 2015 off to an active start, or you’ve been inspired by programmes such as ‘Strictly’ then make your way to the War Memorial Recreation Centre in Acle from 1pm. Seek sponsorship and join in or support those who are letting their footwork do the fundraising. All the dances will be walked through with an experienced leader first and beginners and those without a partner will be made very welcome. Enjoy exciting and unusual music and rhythms from around the world. And there’ll be no judges to pull your quickstep to pieces – the motto here is: “There are no mistakes only variations.”
10 LIFT OFF
MONDAY 9 FEBRUARY
CHARITY DINNER
DONATELLO’S, AMPTHILL, BEDFORDSHIRE We are delighted to have been chosen as one of three charities to be supported by Councillor Mike Blair, Town Mayor of Ampthill this year. Cllr Blair has organised a number of fundraising events with this Italian evening bound to be popular. Guests will be seated at 7.30pm for a three-course meal of traditional Italian favourites followed by coffee. Tickets cost from £18.95 and must be booked in advance with Ampthill Town Council on 01525 404355
Download ANGLIA LIFT OFF as an app – see page 3.
CHARITY BALLS
Sue with EAAA clinician Rob Elias In the months before Christmas a number of very successful charity balls have been held to raise money for EAAA including The Twilight Ball at the Cambridge Belfry and The Crystal Ball at Sprowston Manor. These events are always popular and an enjoyable social occasion to help the charity. In September, EAAA and Peterborough Minster Rotary Club held their September Swing Ball at the Holiday Inn West in Peterborough. Community groups, corporate supporters, airlifted patients and staff were joined by the Deputy Mayor and Mayoress to dine and dance the night away to the Polka Dots Swing band. Highlights of the evening included an auction conducted by David Palmer of ‘Flog it’ fame (pictured), and a popular raffle and wishing tree. The event was a huge success and £7,500 was raised on the night. Area Fundraising Manager Chris Donaldson said: “We were delighted to see everyone in their finery gather to have a good time and support our crews who work night and day throughout the region. This fantastic sum will help us to bring aid to even more victims of accident and medical emergency in the local area.”
SATURDAY 21 MARCH
CHARITY BALL
MERCURE HOTEL, NORWICH This black tie event, generously hosted by the Mercure Hotel, is raising funds for EAAA and promises to be a fun-filled evening – all for just £30 a ticket. Guests will enjoy a three-course meal with coffee and entertainment on the night will be from solo vocalist Glen Cooper. Tickets can be booked by phoning 01603 412520.
ORGANISING A FUNDRAISING EVENT – SUE’S STORY As this issue of ‘Anglia Lift Off’ is published one of our supporters in Ipswich will be putting the finishing touches to what she hopes will be a night of glitz and glamour at a Christmas Party in aid of EAAA. Sue McCarthy’s fundraising event is on Friday 5 December. It’s the first time she has ever done anything like this, but she’s determined it won’t be her last – in fact she has already booked the hall and band for next year and has ideas for other events in between. Inspired by her late husband Brian’s support for EAAA, Sue got involved with the charity after his sudden death last year and she hopes this event will be a fitting tribute to him. Brian had been a member of the EAAA lottery and at his funeral Sue asked for donations to the charity instead of flowers. “He always said the people who work on the air ambulance are unsung heroes,” she said. “We used to watch TV programmes about the work of air ambulance services and after the funeral my grandsons asked everyone to buy an air ambulance pin badge in his memory – and raised £250 in doing so.” But although Sue was keen to support the charity it was a few months before the idea of organising an event came to her. Life without Brian was hard. “I felt as if I had suddenly been catapulted into old age – and I knew I wasn’t ready for it.” It was a fundraising event for a cancer charity that sparked the idea for Sue. A neighbour had organised it after losing his wife to the illness. For Sue it was the first night out she’d had since Brian died. Not sure what to expect she found herself on the dancefloor all evening and the seed of the idea was sown. She asked the band for their card and went home determined to organise something just as good herself. Sue also joined the EAAA fundraising team in Ipswich as a volunteer, attending events to give
out information and sell merchandise. She said: “I’ve really thrown myself into this and I’ve loved every minute of it. In the first year after Brian’s death I wouldn’t have had the confidence to go to something like the Suffolk Show on my own but getting involved with the air ambulance team has allowed me to go to things that I wouldn’t have thought to and make new friends too.” As well as starting to plan the Christmas Party Sue, helped by her grandsons, has organised ‘Teddy Tombolas’ at other events for EAAA. They spruce up, wash, dry and wrap dozens of teddies and the tombola is so popular it’s often sold out in a couple of hours. Tickets for Sue’s Christmas Party were all but sold out almost six weeks before the big day. As well as organising the event itself, Sue has also been persuading local companies to donate some fantastic raffle prizes which have included a stay at a hotel and a month’s free gym membership. She’s also sourced a remote controlled helicopter which will be auctioned on the night. Helen Glenholmes from EAAA’s Suffolk team said: “All of us are so very proud of everything that Sue has achieved since joining us. We’re really looking forward to attending the Christmas Party.” As the day drew closer Sue said: “I’m really excited about it. The team from the EAAA office are providing me with some balloons and bunting to decorate the hall, and the band themselves, Tricks of the Trade, have been incredibly helpful with tips and advice to make the night a success. When I started this I was living my life for Brian. I hope he’d be proud of what I’m doing, but thanks to EAAA I’m living my life for me now as well.” * Watch Sue talking about how she was inspired to help us in our volunteer insight day video on YouTube
LIFT OFF 11
FABULOUS FUNDRAISING Fundraising events help us to keep the two air ambulance helicopters serving the people of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Suffolk seven days a week. If you have organised an event why not send pictures and details of the day to Liftoff@eaaa.org.uk and we will try to feature them in these pages. If the stories here inspire you to try and raise some money then the fundraising manager for your area would be pleased to hear from you. Contact Well done to all who details are on page 3. took part in a charity fishing match organi sed by Stewart Alderton from Milden hall, which netted a whopping £2,400.
HAIR TODAY AND GONE TOMORROW FOR ANNIE To celebrate her 60th Birthday in style, Annie Didlick of Ipswich wanted to show her support for the EAAA with a daring and brave gesture. At Trimley Sports and Social club, EAAA critical care paramedic Jemma Varela joined the party and was presented with an unusual party piece, an electric razor. With gasps and cheers from the crowd, Jemma shaved off Annie’s hair. Annie was thrilled to raise around £1,000 in donations and sponsorship, and although commenting that she now resembled her brother, she felt it was well worth it for such a good cause.
PETANQUE POUNDS
ith a ort EAAA w nly p p su to n has chose m ‘The O all in Luton met cast members fro M e h T e tr n e Shopping c ies. Recently our team centre. it e year of activ at a student event at th ’ x e Way Is Ess
12 LIFT OFF
The Huntingdonshire Petanque League generously chose to support EAAA during the last year and raised more than £5,500 through their efforts – a truly magnificent sum. Their activities included a sponsored charity game on Armed Forces Day combined with a burst a balloon game and a blind auction. They also held a Charity Auction Sunday at the White Horse in Eaton Socon. Members of the league worked very hard to source a huge number of donated prizes to make both events a success.
THANK YOU... FESTIVAL FUNDRAISER Oakley Motorcycle Club, have been avid supporters of EAAA for a number of years and this summer organised the first Oakley Bike Festival. Over 3,000 visitors helped raise more than £6,500. Richard Galka, one of the organisers, said, “This event was beyond our expectations and shows what we, a local club, can stage when we put our mind to it. Our aim was to give our members, the local biking community and local residents a good day out whilst supporting our sponsors who help maintain the club year in, year out.” The EAAA Bedfordshire team attended the event and raised a further £415 on the day.
SPORTS FUN FOR INSURANCE FIRM AXA Insurance based in Ipswich has embraced the meaning of the word FUNdraising with a group of ten employees joining forces to generate a staggering £1,450. Kitted out in our ‘Proud to Support’ T-shirts they went to London to take on other teams at a company sporting event, all raising money for chosen charities. Games such as three legged race, egg and spoon, soccer and much more were played and to further generate funds, EAAA merchandise was sold. Yvonne Dowsett from the company explained: “Each year AXA does what we call Hearts in Action where different departments do something for the community. We would usually do painting, gardening or build something, perhaps at a school or church. This year our department decided to raise money for charity, we were split into 5 teams and we each had to come up with a charity and ways to raise money. My team sold clothes that had been donated to us, held a self defence class, sold EAAA merchandise, guess the bear’s name, Ice bucket challenge and a thunderball draw. “
FUNDRAISING ON TRACK
STABLE OWNER’S SUPPORT
Two events held at St Felix School in Southwold helped raise nearly £2,000. The Waveney Valley Model Railway Club held their 26th Annual Exhibition and staff at the school, led by Sandy Williamson, planned a craft fair in conjunction with it. Anglia One landed in the school grounds, allowing the crowds to meet the team and see the helicopter up close.
A series of open days and fundraisers at a riding school in Norfolk has raised around £5,000 in nearly 15 years. Manor Farm Riding Stables at Lyng is owned by Sheila Bird who recognises the importance of the air ambulance service to the equestrian community. Sheila said: “Although I’m fortunate enough not to know any riders personally who have been helped by the helicopter, it did come the aid of a man at our church.” The annual open day at the stables is always the second Sunday in September and supports a number of charities. The day involves demonstrations, a raffle and other stalls and this year raised £925 for the chosen causes.
A generous donation of £1,250 was raised at this year’s Soham Carnival. The closure of Norfolk based casting club Anglia Sportcast has resulted in a donation of more than £10,000. EAAA volunteers attended Luton Town’s match against Southend to raise money with a bucket collection and fans generously gave just over £1,000. The Lacey family of Fulbourn kindly supported EAAA again at their annual charity luncheon – raising more than £10,200. Breckland Brass Band raised over £700 at their October concert. A sponsored horse ride organised by the British Horse Society at Southill in Bedfordshire has raised over £3,000 for EAAA. Barway Services in Cambridgeshire have supported the charity throughout the year. Their raffle alone generated almost £4,000.
The pupils of the Jane Newbury School of Dancing in Swaffham Bulbeck have donated more than £1,200 from their recent events. The Brian Glenister Memorial Darts Knock Out match at the Royal Oak pub in Houghton Conquest, Bedfordshire, raised over £2,700. Kim Markillie’s annual charity golf day saw another very generous donation totalling more than £1,600.
To donate £5 to EAAA please text heli to 70500
LIFT OFF 13
0412 BCrown Quarter 177x101 .qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2014 12:15 Page 1
BIRDS NORFOLK NHH HOLIDAY HOMES
www.norfolkholidayhomes-birds.co.uk shohol@birdsnorfolkholidayhomes.co.uk Tel; 01485 534267 SELF-CATERING HOLIDAY HOMES
•
ALL VISIT ENGLAND GRADED
DOGS & CHILDREN WELCOME • GROUND FLOOR ACCOMMODATION
CLOSE TO BEACH & HOLIDAY AMENITIES
S TAY AT THE BILDESTON CROWN 104 HIGH STREET, BILDESTON IPSWICH, SUFFOLK IP7 7EB.
LOOK AND BOOK TODAY!
01449 740510
www.thebildestoncrown.com
FOR ALL YOUR LAND ROVER AFTER SALES NEEDS
FOR ALL YOUR SSANGYONG NEEDS
Service your Land Rover locally
Lindacre – ‘ The new name for SsangYong in Suffolk and North Essex’
Competitive prices with no hidden extras Delivery/Collection service or courtesy cars Fully trained Land Rover technicians with over 150 years experience, locally Latest Land Rover diagnostics Land Rover warranty repairs
Full range of demonstration vehicles Used stock available – Competitive finance available Latest SsangYong Diagnostics Service, Repairs and warranty facilities SsangYong Parts both Retail and Trade
Lindacre Land Rover Service Centre
Lindacre SSangYong Centre
1A Olympus Close, Whitehouse Road, Ipswich, Suffolk IP1 5LJ Tel 44 (0)1473 461 751. Fax 44 (0)1473 744 048.
1A Olympus Close, Whitehouse Road, Ipswich, Suffolk IP1 5LJ Tel 44 (0)1473 461 751. Fax 44 (0)1473 744 048.
www.lindacre.co.uk
www.lindacre.co.uk
LIN014 Half Page Magazine ad 190x127.indd 1
14 LIFT OFF
07/11/2014 15:54
15th ANNIVERSARY East Anglian Air Ambulance celebrates its 15th anniversary in 2015. We want to make it a really special year for our supporters as well as our service. We’ve launched a new range of merchandise to help people get creative with their fundraising – especially around a theme of ‘15’. Could you host an afternoon tea party starting at 3pm – or 1500 hours – perhaps (or even 1515 if you prefer)? Our anniversary tea-pot, mugs and cake cases will leave your guests in no doubt about who you are supporting. Hold your own ‘bake-off’ with all the cakes decorated in a 15 or EAAA theme. If you’d like to purchase some of these striking items, even if you don’t have a tea party planned, please contact your nearest EAAA fundraising office and our staff will be happy to order some for you. Perhaps you have a fundraising idea of your own such as a sponsored 15 mile (or 15km - which is about 9 miles) cycle ride, walk or run. Get the children or grandchildren involved by suggesting they are sponsored to read 15 books or help with the washing up every day for 15 days! If you are a member of a club or team such as dancing, bowls or darts to name but three why not have a sponsored 15 hour event?
e of the 15th anniversary on As we approach our pporters su ’d like to encourage fundraising ideas we rty. Evelyn Lilley from Great pa to think about is a tea hers in style this year and thanks d di , bs m Ca , rd d happy Chesterfo homemade cakes an of e ng ra g in to an amaz ,000 helpers raised over £1
And if you have a great idea for 15 themed fundraising then please let us know. We’ll give you all the help you need to endeavour to make it a great success and, if you take some pictures, we may be able to feature it in a future ‘Anglia Lift Off’ during our anniversary year. There are lots of ways to contact us – and you’ll find the details for your nearest fundraising team on page 3. Alternatively contact us via Facebook or Twitter so that we can share your idea with our followers.
HOW IT ALL BEGAN With our two aircraft serving our region by day and night, it’s hard to imagine how such a large rural area managed without an air ambulance service before EAAA came into existence. It was a high-profile incident in the summer of 2000 that led to the campaign to fund an air ambulance service. Jockeys Frankie Dettori and Ray Cochrane were injured in a plane crash at Newmarket Racecourse, in which the pilot was killed. Just a couple of months later Frankie Dettori helped launch the appeal for an East Anglian Air Ambulance service and by December enough money had been raised to allow a helicopter to fly on one day a week – a Friday. The first helicopter to carry the call sign Anglia One was a Bolkow 105.
LIFT OFF 15
FUNDRAISING BRAVE KERRY’S 10KM RUN AFTER AIRLIFT When Kerry Waters started running to keep fit at the start of 2014 she signed up to take part in the 10km Run to the Beat event in September along with her running buddy Jay Abbot – her sister’s partner. But at the end of June, everything changed for Kerry when she was involved in an horrific motorbike accident, which nearly cost her her life and in which her lower leg was severed.
Anglia Two was tasked to the scene and Dr Monojit Choudhury and Critical Care Paramedic Gary Steward gave emergency treatment at the scene before airlifting her for specialist trauma treatment. St George’s Hospital was the closest trauma centre with a helipad still open at that time of the evening.
For many people the prospect of recovering from something like this would mean the run just three months later would be the furthest thing from their mind, but for Kerry it made her even more determined not just to take part but to raise funds for the charity that airlifted her to hospital.
Viewers to the programme would have seen Kerry’s anxious grandparents, who had been at the scene of the crash and the doctors who laboured to save her once at the hospital. Her injuries were so severe that medics from seven different departments were called to treat Kerry.
Viewers of the Channel Four documentary series ’24 Hours in A&E’ will have seen Kerry featured in the first episode, screened at the end of October. The series was filmed at St George’s Hospital in Tooting which has one of the busiest and most advanced A&E departments.
But just a week later Kerry was transferred to a local hospital and in an interview with her local paper just a few days later, told how she was determined to complete the 10km run, but would also be seeking sponsorship for the air ambulance that played such a significant part in saving her life. Until that day, she told the paper, she hadn’t realised that the air ambulance is funded entirely by charity. Kerry planned to walk where she could and would be pushed in a wheelchair by Jay for the rest of it.
Kerry’s accident happened on the evening of 27 June not far from her home in South Essex. She collided with a support wire of a power pole which came close to decapitating her and she lost part of her leg.
The pair were true to their word and so far have raised over £2,400 for EAAA. Area Fundraising Manager Kay Marter said: “Kerry has remained very strong and is an inspiration with her positive attitude. We can’t thank her enough for the fundraising she has done in just a matter of weeks after such a life-changing accident.”
COLLEGE STEPS IN TO HOST RUNWAY RUN A last minute change of venue didn’t stop EAAA’s 6th annual Runway Run being a great success for the charity. Crowds of people took part in the 5km and 10km courses and enjoyed the brilliant September running weather. This year’s event was held at the National Construction College which was able to accommodate the run at the last minute, after environmental issues prevented it going ahead at Sculthorpe Airfield, where the runway would have formed the course. Anglia One landed at the venue before being called away to a mission in Heacham. Other emergency services who were also there were Norfolk Police and SERV. Malcolm Tuff completed the 5km race in the fastest time and the 10km was won by Nicholas Bensley, both members of the Ryston Runners. Friends and family of the competitors enjoyed a fun filled day, with entertainment including stalls, a funfair and music from The Joe Ringer Band. The event would not have been possible without the help of fantastic volunteers who gave up their time to help marshal the course and register the participants. EAAA head office staff Rachel Cleaver and Marie Harrison also completed the run, raising over £500 between them for the charity. Area Fundraising Manager, Klara Mears, said: “We are extremely grateful to the National Construction College for hosting this year’s event and making it such a brilliant day. “The runners made the most of the good weather and spectators enjoyed the entertainment. We can’t wait for next year’s event!”
16 LIFT OFF
.
Image by Glyn Collins
CYCLISTS CELEBRATE TOUR FOR EAAA An event to celebrate the Tour de France coming to Cambridge has raised more than £2,800 for EAAA.
THANKS
Savills Cambridge teamed up with PRIMO cycles and the Gog Magog Hills Farm Shop to present the Gran Fondo 2014. The sportive was a family event with a choice of a 40 or 80 mile cycle route around South Cambridgeshire, starting and finishing from the farm shop, which also held a range of activities for those who didn’t want to get in the saddle.
Staff at the Grafton Centre in Cambridge (above) took part in a cycling challenge in September without leaving the indoor shopping centre. They took turns to cycle a marathon distance on an exercise bike and raised nearly £180 with a bucket collection thanks to generous shoppers.
Savills generously donated an extra £10 for every client or employee of the company that took part.
Swimmers from the Aqua Harmony Swimming Club in Bedford have raised more than £210 with activities which included life saving skills in water. Paul Diaper from Woolpit, Suffolk, swam a mile in the pool at Mid Suffolk Leisure Centre and raised £100. He’s supported the charity for some time after a loved one was attended by the air ambulance crew. The annual Flixton sponsored 25 mile bike ride in North Suffolk raised over £3,500 this year thanks to staff of Flixton Mushrooms and their friends and family members (below). A special event for next year to support EAAA’s 15th anniversary is already being planned by the event’s organiser David Mann.
LIFT OFF 17
Lottery LOTTERY JACKPOT WINNERS SINCE OUR LAST EDITION
THE ACCUMULATOR PRIZE
For full details each week of the EAAA lottery winners and the current accumulator prize please visit our website – www.eaaa.org.uk The results are published there first and as soon as possible after the draw is made. They remain available on the site for approximately one month. In the last quarter the £1,000 jackpot has been won by:
At the end of October the accumulator prize had not been won since February – meaning the prize for the first draw in November stood at a whopping £19,500 – the highest it has ever been. Each week a total of £500 is added to the prize pot – up to a maximum of £25,000. When the prize is won the accumulator starts again the following week at £500. Everyone who plays our lottery is automatically entered for this draw and has the same chance of winning this as all our other weekly prizes. Details of how much it has reached each week and whether it has been won or not are posted in the Lottery News section of our website.
Aug 01
Mr & Mrs Wilkinson King’s Lynn
Aug 08
Ms F. Brewer
Haverhill, Suffolk
Aug 15
Mr T. Hamilton
Caister on Sea, Norfolk
Aug 22
Miss S. Rogers
Oakington, Cambs
Aug 29
Mrs C. Moutrey
Sandy, Beds
Sep 05
Mrs A. Kenyon
Reepham, Norfolk
Sep 12
Mr M. Marsh
Dunstable, Beds
Sep 19
Mrs J. Rye
Clenchwarton, Norfolk
Sep 26
Mrs S. Roxby
Horsford, Norfolk
Oct 03
Mr R. Hewison
Ramsey, Cambs
Oct 10
Mr K. Miller
Acle, Norfolk
Oct 17
Miss S. Richardson Ongar, Essex
Oct 24
Mrs C. Manley
Haverhill, Suffolk
Oct 31
Mrs J. Glanfield
Needham Market, Suffolk
Congratulations to all our lottery winners and thanks to all who have chosen to make a donation to the charity following a win. We’d especially like to thank those who have completed a Gift Aid form when making a donation. This allows us to claim 20% tax back from the Government, if the donor is a UK tax-payer at no extra cost to them. The form is available from our offices or website.
THANK YOU The East Anglian Air Ambulance charity is enormously appreciative of the support from our loyal lottery players. Your weekly contribution really does make a difference and has helped to generate millions for the charity since it started. Without your continued support, it would be very difficult for us to maintain the service we currently provide. However, please don’t forget to let us know if you move house, we send our winning cheques through the post each week so it’s vital that we have an up to date address for our players.
Playing our lottery Supporting the EAAA lottery is one of the easiest and most sustainable ways to keep us flying and saving lives – and it costs just £1 per ‘chance’. There are 18 main cash prizes including a jackpot of £1,000 which is won every week. Everyone who plays the lottery is automatically entered into the accumulator draw as well.
18 LIFT OFF
Once we receive your completed membership application we enter your details onto our lottery system. You’ll be sent a letter and membership card with details of your lucky number. Each Friday the winners are randomly selected from all current paying members and we automatically send them their prizes so there is no need to claim.
Joining is easy – although players must be over the age of 16. We have an ancillary remote license from the Gambling Commission which means we can sign up lottery members via our website (visit the shop section to do so) and over the phone on 01603 489400.
Munns_Layout 1 19/04/2012 12:52 Page 1
L & A E Munns and Son, Westmoor Farm, Chatteris, Cambs PE16 6SD Tel: 01354 692773
www.laemunns.com
Nearly 400 stockists throughout the UK. Visit our website and find one near you! LIFT OFF 19
MAKE A DIFFERENCE DAY OF CELEBRATION FOR WORK OF EAAA VOLUNTEERS A volunteer insight day hosted by East Anglian Air Ambulance has praised the achievements of hundreds of long standing volunteers. Attended by more than 150 volunteers, the day was held in the Walled Garden at the Elveden Estate thanks to EAAA Trustee Lord Iveagh, who was among those who spoke on the day alongside Chief Executive Patrick Peal and Medical Director Alastair Wilson. Guests also heard from Aviation Consultant Gerry Hermer, who is celebrating 50 years of working in aviation and one of our founding Trustees David Barker. As well as thanking supporters for all they have done, the event also aimed to explain more about all aspects of the charity’s work. Meeting clinicians, operational staff and former patients allows our volunteers to talk knowledgably about our work to others and share the experiences that they have heard about first hand. Among the speakers was former patient James Piercy who was very seriously injured in a car crash in 2011. James is a science communicator and as he’s recovered he’s built one of his presentations around explaining what happened to him and how EAAA clinicians helped to save his life with the emergency trauma care he received at the scene. James gave an inspiring and entertaining speech about his experience, ending with his sincere thanks to those who volunteer and raise funds to keep the aircraft flying. Clearly moved by his story, the audience gave him a standing ovation. A film of his presentation is on our YouTube channel and can be accessed through our website. Guests enjoyed a delicious lunch provided by Food Amour and afternoon tea – with cakes baked by the volunteers themselves. After lunch, awards were presented to those supporters who had volunteered for two, five and 10 years for the charity. Dave Webb is a volunteer who’s been with the charity since 2001. He explained how he and his wife Molly help the charity together with the amazing Betty Kemp, who’s still fundraising in her 80s: “She’s cooked thousands of cakes for her coffee mornings every Saturday, which she’s been running since 2003…..I’ve done parachute jumps and bungee jumps and Molly does a tombola, we used to raise up to £11,000 a year just on the tombola,” he said.
Chief Executive Patrick Peal
20 LIFT OFF
2 year service volunteers...
5 year service volunteers...
Former patient James Piercy
Dr Jeremy Mauger spoke about the role of a flying doctor and the challenges of carrying out care in emergency situations away from a hospital environment.
EAAA Helicopters Anglia One and Anglia Two attended in between missions, to show the supporters how all their hard work benefits the charity and keeps the helicopters flying. During his talk, Aviation Consultant Gerry Hermer spoke about how he was involved in starting up the service as his company originally provided the aircraft and pilots and how he flew many missions himself in the early days. He spoke of his own experience first as a pilot in the RAF and with EAAA, as well as the new aircraft, the EC145, which will be in service for EAAA next year.
EAAA Head of Communications, Diana Jakubowska, said: “We are delighted that so many of our fantastic volunteers came to receive their long service awards, it is a brilliant way for us to say thank you for all their hard work. “We thoroughly enjoyed the day at Elveden and we are looking forward to future events there.”
LIFT OFF 21 10 year service volunteers...
HOW TO HELP US REDUCE YOUR INHERITANCE TAX BILL BY GIVING TO EAAA Inheritance tax is something that many people worry about. It’s paid on estates worth more than £325,000, usually at a rate of 40%. But if your estate is liable to Inheritance Tax, you could reduce the amount due to pay by choosing to give some of your money to charity. In 2011 the Chancellor announced a cut in the rate of inheritance tax from 40 per cent to 36 per cent from April 2012 for those who left at least 10 per cent of their estates to a good cause. The change in inheritance tax laws was envisaged to cost the Government £25 million in the tax year ending 2013, £75 million in the following year and £125 million in the year after. It is based on the assumption that charities will receive an extra £300m over three years through this measure. The purpose of this relief was to incentivise charity giving. It should be of particular interest to potential benefactors who are already considering leaving a gift in their will and who may find under the proposed relief that they can leave more to charity without taking away from the amount left to their non-charitable beneficiaries. You can leave a range of gifts in your will, but the most common is either a Pecuniary Legacy which is a fixed sum or a Residuary Legacy which is part or all of your estate once any other gifts have been distributed. Jess Down has recently taken over the role of Legacies Officer at EAAA. She is an established member of the EAAA staff having worked with our Norfolk area fundraising team for several years.
HELP US
SAVE LIVES
People who have already drawn up a will may not be aware of this change announced by the Government
Jess said: “People who have already drawn up a will may not be aware of this change announced by the Government and may find that they can reduce the amount of inheritance tax with just a small amendment to the will. “I’d be more than happy to hear from anyone who has mentioned EAAA in their will and would now like to have a chat to find out more about this change. They may also find it useful to look at the HMRC website.” There’s a great deal of information about making a will on the EAAA website, including a Frequently Asked Questions section. You’ll find this at www.eaaa.org.uk/ support-us/legacies. Or contact Jess by emailing jess.down@eaaa.org.uk. And if you have already mentioned EAAA in your will, then thank you. With one in four of the missions we fly funded by gifts in wills, your kind gesture will make a significant difference.
There are many ways in which you can support us, please help by ticking the boxes which interest you and completing your contact details. Then simply return the form to: FREEPOST EAAA or email the area(s) which interests you with your contact details to: info@eaaa.org.uk or telephone: 08450 669 999. For more information about East Anglian Air Ambulance and for details of fundraising events in your area, please visit www.eaaa.org.uk
Thank you for your support
✃
Name Address Postcode Tel Email I’d like to make a donation and enclose a sum of £
I’d like information to help me raise money for EAAA
I’d like to find out about setting up a regular donation
I’d like information on how to leave a legacy
I’d like to know more about becoming a volunteer
I’d like to receive details about corporate sponsorship
Add 20p to every £1 you donate at no extra cost to you by ticking this box and signing below. This will enable us to claim GiftAid. I am a UK taxpayer and would like the East Anglian Air Ambulance to reclaim the tax on the enclosed gift and all gifts of money that I have made in the past 4 years and all future gifts of money that I make from the date of this declaration. Signature Date All the data is gathered and managed in strict accordance with the Data Protection Act (1998). We will not disclose any information supplied by you to any third party. We may contact you occasionally with information about other aspects of our work. If you would prefer not to receive these mailing please tick here
22 LIFT OFF