Get to know… JANE GURNEY

CEO OF ESSEX AND HERTS AIR AMBULANCE TRUST (EHAAT)

Q Can you tell us about your charity?

A We're a local life-saving charity providing a first-class pre-hospital emergency medical service across Essex, Hertfordshire, and surrounding areas. As a charity without access to National Lottery funding and with limited support from the Government, we depend on the generosity and goodwill of the people and businesses of Essex and Hertfordshire to remain operational. Each mission costs around £2,200, and it costs in excess of £750,000 every month to remain operational and cover all charitable costs.

Q How has 2023 been for you so far?

A It's been an extraordinary year so far as we proudly celebrate the charity's 25th anniversary. We started working from a small room attached to Broomfield Hospital and a small airbase out of Boreham – so we've come a long way! From our bases at Earls Colne and North Weald today, we have over 141 team members, over 400 volunteers and nine shops. Last year, we carried out 2,545 missions, 1,317 by air ambulance and 1,228 via our fleet of rapid response vehicles. This year holds special significance for me as I mark my 20th year with the charity.

Q Considering the tough few years we have had, what do you think it is about your charity that has enabled you to survive?

A Our story would not be possible without our amazing supporters. We've built long-lasting relationships with local people and businesses. Their generous donations, creative fundraising efforts, and words of encouragement fuel our mission and enable us to keep our local life-saving service operational every single day. We really couldn't fly without them.

Q Do you see yourself as an important part of the local community?

A Absolutely! Our pre-hospital care doctors, critical care paramedics, highly skilled pilots and co-pilots are all focused on delivering the very best clinical care across Essex, Hertfordshire, and the surrounding areas. We also have an army of over 400 dedicated volunteers who go above and beyond, fuelling our mission whilst making a meaningful difference in their local communities. Together, we strive to create a positive impact and foster a sense of unity and support among the people we serve. It's the people's air ambulance.

Q As we approach summer, where in your areas do you love spending time?

A There's nothing quite like strolling along the beautiful beaches of Mersea Island or Frinton. Ware is another favourite of mine, with a vibrant culinary scene there are so many fantastic places to eat.

Q Describe your perfect day… ehaat.org

A On a sunny day, there's nothing better than unwinding in the garden and catching up with family and close friends, enjoying good food and drinks.

Q Do you still have ambitions for the charity?

A Absolutely! We're always shaping exciting plans as to how we can continue to provide the best possible clinical care, such as developing our clinical service with a new and ambitious structure, our Centre for Excellence. Our vision is to create a world-leading community through which pre-hospital care is developed to achieve the best possible outcomes for all patients. For me personally, I am relishing opportunities to do more mentoring and coaching for aspiring young people.

THE SILVER CUP

The Silver Cup in Harpenden is continuing to gather acclaim for its imaginative menus, standout flavours and its warm and welcoming atmosphere. Independently owned and led by Michael Singleton and chef Matthew Reeder, the pair took over in spring 2020 and transformed the 19th century pub into a contemporary dining space, with a regularly changing set menu and a well-balanced wine selection, stylish interior and newly refurbished outside terrace. Turn over for news of yet another accolade. thesilvercup.co.uk