The Great North Air Ambulance has launched a fundraising campaign to ‘secure the future’ of the life saving charity.

For over 20 years the Great North Air Ambulance has flown critically ill and injured people to hospital saving countless lives now they are asking for help to raise £2.5 million to secure their future.

A spokesperson for the charity said: “For over 20 years, the sound of our helicopter has meant one thing: hope is on the way.

“It’s a promise you’ve helped us keep, but today, that promise is at risk.

“Our two life-saving helicopters have reached the end of their service and we now face one of the most critical moments in our charity’s history.

“But, we have the blueprints for a stronger future: a new, three-helicopter fleet that’s ready to meet growing demand, deliver more advanced medical care, and ensure we’re never grounded.

“It could be difference between life and death.

“We have the blueprints. We have the crews. But we are £2.5 million short of securing the deposit for the vital third aircraft.

“Your support has always kept us flying, and now, we need you more than ever.

“Your donations will help purchase the helicopter that ensures we can reach the next child, parent, or loved one who needs us.

“It will turn our blueprint into a reality and secure the future of our service.

“This isn’t about growth, it’s about survival. It’s about keeping our promise to you, and to every person who needs us in their darkest hour.”

The charity covers the North East, Cumbria, North Yorkshire and the Isle of Man by air and road, receiving no funding from the government it relies on the public to raise the money it needs to run its life saving service.

In 2024 the Air Ambulance attended 2083 incidents and cost £9.3 million to run for the year, £25,200 a day.

You can donate here to help secure the future of the service.