Boris Johnson today urged Londoners to back a £4.4 million appeal for a second emergency medical helicopter for the capital.
The charity that operates London’s air ambulance wants a second machine because its only helicopter was unavailable for 55 days last year as it underwent essential maintenance.
The Mayor said: “We rightly rally together to rapidly raise millions for disasters in other countries around the world but on this occasion the need is right here on our doorstep. I am very proud that London’s air ambulance has such a world-leading reputation for delivering the most cutting-edge advanced trauma care outside of hospital.
“That has only been possible thanks to the generosity of Londoners to date. Please rally together and support this fantastic campaign.” The helicopter flies a trauma doctor and paramedic direct to the scene of life-threatening incidents such as stabbings, shootings and road accidents within the M25 area. Most patients are taken to hospital by road after treatment at the scene, though about a third of cases are flown back to major trauma centres.
One recent mission was to cyclist Victoria Lebrec, 24, run over by a skip lorry in Clerkenwell in December. She was treated at the roadside to stop her bleeding to death. “If it hadn’t been for the London air ambulance I wouldn’t be here,” she said.
The air ambulance has treated 32,000 people since its launch in 1989. It uses fast-response cars at night, when it is not safe for it to fly.
Chancellor George Osborne has already given £1 million towards the helicopter and it is hoped to have it operating by July. To donate to the Your London, Your Helicopter appeal, visit yourhelicopter.london.
