Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance (HIOWAA), the UK aeromedical charity, recently flew its 10,000th mission. The milestone mission took place on 19 April when Fran Dolman, HEMS specialist paramedic Mike Funge, HEMS paramedic Nigel Harley and captain Dave Nicholls were called to Ringwood in Hampshire, to provide critical care to a young male following a road traffic collision. Following treatment at the scene, the patient was conveyed to University Hospital Southampton by colleagues at South Central Ambulance Service.

Acting chief executive Sherie Williams Ellen says: “10,000 missions by air is an incredible landmark, and being a lifeline to so many people is something we take great pride in. However, I am acutely aware that we are only called out to the most seriously ill and injured people in our community, so for many of those patients it will have been the toughest day of their life.

“Thanks to the specialist skills, quick response and professionalism of our clinicians, we've given many of our patients the very best chance of survival. Children still have their parents; husbands, wives and partners remain side-by-side; friends and loved ones can continue to be there for one another, which is why we do what we do. Integral to all of this are our dedicated donors and supporters. Their commitment, passion and love for the charity enable us to respond to so many people in their hour of need.”

HIOWAA operates one H135 from its airbase at Thruxton.