Learn life-saving skills with the air ambulance (From Evesham Journal)

Learn life-saving skills with the air ambulance

1:40pm Sunday 2nd September 2012 in Evesham

FLYING HIGH: Air Ambulance charity boss Hanna Seabright, left, at the opening of the new airbase in Strensham. She is pictured with the Mayor of Upton-upon-Severn Andrea Morgan, Worcestershire County Council chairman Robert Adams, fund-raiser Jenny Ashman

STUDENT paramedics could be trained at the Midlands Air Ambulance base, which has just undergone a £200,000 refurbishment.

Fund-raising director Jason Levy revealed the proposals as new facilities at the Strensham airbase were opened.

Refurbishments included new crew accommodation, helicopter hangar and modifications to the helipad to assist in night flights.

Mr Levy said that since the improvements had been done there was a portable cabin left over, which could be transformed into a £25,000 training and visitor hub. It could cater for about 15 student paramedics and it is hoped it will be fitted with computer equipment and a spectators’ gallery.

Mr Levy said: “Since the improvements we have facilities that are probably the best in the country and we can add to that. It is £25,000 we haven’t budgeted for and we are hoping to get funding and support.”

A campaign is expected to be launched next month with the charity hoping to talk to the University of Worcester about supporting the project, which could be completed by the end of the year.

The plans for the education and visitor hub follow the opening of the new airbase which was attended by local dignitaries including Worcestershire County Council chairman Rob Adams.

Coun Adams said the charity was very important to him as it had come to his rescue about eight years ago when a horse came down on him breaking his ribs and causing a shoulder injury.

Also attending was councillor John Smith, who represents Evesham north west, who said: “I think it is fantastic to see what has been done here. I am really impressed to hear that staff were involved in the design of the building.”

Hanna Sebright, air ambulance CEO, said: “When you think that this airbase is 16 years old and in that time the demand for services has grown so much it is so exciting to be part of this change.”