We’re thrilled to announce that Rotarians from across the region have successfully raised over £52K to purchase a new Rapid Response Vehicle (RRV).
To celebrate this fantastic achievement, we welcomed representatives from Rotary South East to our Redhill Airbase for the official handover of the vehicle, a Volvo XC90. It is now one of our fleet of four specially equipped RRVs used to respond to incidents across Kent, Surrey, and Sussex when our helicopters are unable to take to the air. These vehicles carry the same equipment and drugs as our helicopters but are not used to transport patients to hospital. That is done by helicopter or land ambulance.
Our Community Fundraising Manager, Nick Turrell, said: “It was fantastic to be able to show our guests the vehicle that Rotarians across the region have funded and which now plays a key role in making sure that we can deliver our lifesaving service 24/7. As an independent charity, we are here for millions of people across Kent, Surrey, and Sussex and respond to an average of nine emergency calls for help each day. But it’s only thanks to our supporters that we can continue to reach people when they need us most, so we are so grateful for this incredible donation. It was great to welcome our guests and show them behind the scenes.”
During the visit, our guests had the opportunity to see the RRV close up, speak to crew members, and hear updates on our aviation plans, finances, and our future plans. One of the most poignant moments came when our visitors witnessed one of our highly-skilled crews being dispatched to an incident. Seeing them make their way to the aircraft and set off to care for a patient reinforced why the service we provide is so critical.
After the visit, Brian Dunne, District Governor of Rotary South East, commented: “When in September last year the Rotary clubs in the Southeast decided to raise £50K for a Rapid Response Vehicle for KSS, I did not expect the funds to be raised so quickly! The speed with which we achieved our goal is a testament to the spirit of solidarity and philanthropy that defines the Rotary community. I am indebted to the hard work and dedication of three Rotarians who led the fundraising campaign: Peter Conetta, Gill Gough, and Ray Seager. Their hard work, along with the personal generosity of several Rotarians, helped us all to achieve this outstanding result.
“As the current District Governor of Rotary South East, I am very proud of the District’s efforts for this cause. It was an honour to spend the day at KSS, with some of those who have been closely involved with this campaign. We were able to see the car resplendent with its livery and had the opportunity to hear from staff about the work of the Air Ambulance. The dedication, skill, and commitment of all involved made one appreciate what a wonderful and essential service the staff at KSS provide.”
For further information about our fleet of RRVs and helicopters, visit aakss.org.uk.
