PRESS RELEASE

August 20, 2019

Wear Red Instead to support Air Ambulance Kent Surrey Sussex

Wear Red Instead this September and raise money and awareness for Air Ambulance Kent Surrey Sussex.

The charity, which relies almost entirely on donations from the public to operate its life-saving service, is urging individuals, businesses, groups and schools to support it during National Air Ambulance Week - which runs from September 9-15 - by wearing red instead of their normal everyday clothes.

"The choice of red is an acknowledgement of the work of our crews and medics who wear red flight suits," said Nick Turrell, Head of Community Fundraising at AAKSS.

"We hope as many people as possible will Wear Red Instead for at least one day of National Air Ambulance Week, tell friends and colleagues why they are doing so and ask for donations."

Last year the charity attended more than 2,500 emergencies and is able to reach any part of the region within 25 minutes of being called out.

"We couldn't operate without the generous donations from the public, for which we are truly grateful," said Nick. "We hope supporters old and new will Wear Red Instead during National Air Ambulance Week to raise funds and awareness for the vital work we do."

Those wanting to take part can register at www.aakss.org.uk/wri2019 or email hello@aakss.org.uk.

All those registering will receive a fundraising pack including information about the work of the charity, and Wear Red Instead poster, bunting and balloons.

ENDS

Caption: Wear Red Instead and be a superhero for Air Ambulance Kent Surrey Sussex

For further information please contact:

Andy Rayfield at Maxim PR

Tel: 01892 513033

Email: andyr@Maxim-pr.co.uk

Notes to Editors

•          Air Ambulance Kent Surrey Sussex (AAKSS) is a Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) operating out of Redhill and Rochester

•          AAKSS serves a population of 4.7m people, plus those that travel through the area

•          Its crews of pilots/co-pilots operate three helicopters and fly 2,500 missions a year with onboard medical care provided by doctors and paramedics

•          It was the first Air Ambulance in the country to operate its helicopters 24/7

•          The service relies almost entirely on donations from the public

•          Of the more than £11m needed to sustain the service, 92% is raised by public donation and fundraising with the remaining 8% provided by the NHS

For further information visit: www.aakss.org.uk.