Air Ambulance back in service after volcanic ash grounding

THE KENT, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance has once again taken to the skies after the charity's two helicopters were grounded last week.

The two helicopters were grounded last Friday following reports of volcanic ash both in the air and on the ground in Southern England.

An up-date at 10.30am on Monday 19th April from the Air Ambulance's helicopter provider cleared both aircraft for flying but only to emergency calls.

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When the decision to suspend Air Ambulance flights was taken, the specialist doctors and paramedic team immediately transferred to response cars.

They responded to a total of thirteen emergency medical calls before the decision to resume flights.

John Tickner, Chief Executive of the Air Ambulance said:

"This situation is almost unprecedented and the decision to take the helicopter offline was a very difficult one.

"It is vital that we do not put either our crews or patients at risk, if there is one. However we have to weigh this up against not providing such a critical service.

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"Fortunately, the decisions are ultimately made for us by experts, whose knowledge is far greater than our own.

"They have assured us that it is now safe to fly and we will continue to review developments."

The charity's helicopters were back in service in time to respond to an emergency call in Hastings on Monday afternoon at 3.20pm.

A man in his fifties had fallen approximately 30ft from scaffolding receiving head and neck injuries.

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The Kent Air Ambulance landed on the Upper Promenade close to the scene of the accident which happened at a building in Claremont, behind the library between Trinity Street and Robertson Street.

The victim was air-lifted to Queens Hospital, Romford where his condition is described as "serious but stable."

The Police and Health and Safety Executive are investigating.

Anyone who witnessed the accident are asked to contact police on 0845 60 70 999 quoting 1116 19th April.

For further information on the Air Ambulance visit the website at: www.kentsurreysussexairambulance.co.uk