The Great North Air
Ambulance

Perhaps one of the most common questions visitors ask when noticing the remoteness of Holy Island, particularly when the tide is in, is 'what happens in the event of a medical emergency'.

In common with other remote communities up here in Northumberland, we are proud to receive the superb service of the 'Great North Air Ambulance'. The 'shout' may be on the Island, the A1 trunk road or an off-the-track lane or footpath. It may be an out-in-the-wilds farmhouse or hamlet. We are all indebted to the valiant efforts of the dedicated and intrepid aircrew.

Whilst there are certain pre-allocated landing sites on the Island the helicopter will land within yards of almost any incident. DTI legislation prohibits radio communication with the Island's volunteer coastguard service and visual signals are occasionally required. Similarly, the helicopter is not equipped for night landings in remote areas. The response is very fast indeed. Within thirty minutes the patient can be transported to the finest of hospital attention in the country - with the medical teams already prepared and waiting at the landing site. Not merely first class service but the best!

Of course there is a cost for such excellent service. There is also risk that the service may be phased out if these costs are not met. And it may be that one day you or someone you care about is passing through Northumberland and may be in need of urgent assistance. A familiar sight in Holy Island's recent past was the late Eddy Douglas who was usually to be found sitting with his collection box outside the Oasis cafe. Eddy still holds the record for the largest amount collected in a year. Most of us on the island are absolutely dedicated to the cause - and with good reason. Ask us about it.

Then - if you are able - please give generously...

Alternatively, please send donations to the following address:

                    Mr. Graham Pickering (WWW)
                    Great North Air Ambulance Service Appeal
                    119, Stockton Road
                    Darlington - DL1 2RZ