THIS Christmas, the Gazette has joined forces with the Essex Air Ambulance for a special campaign.

The trust, which covers Essex and Hertfordshire, provides vital care in some of the most serious and difficult emergency situations.

As well as flying people to the most suitable major trauma centre for their injury, the crew can provide an extensive range of treatments, including surgery, at the scene.

But it receives no Government funding, and relies on donations to operate.

This week, we will be talking to some of the key people behind the vital charity – and next week, it’s your turn.

We encourage you to show your support and get involved by holding fundraisers and raising money during our very own Yellow Day on December 12.

You could organise a bake sale, a dress down day at your workplace or school, or come up with a completely new idea to raise cash.

Gazette editor James Wills said: “The Air Ambulance is a brilliant charity and we are really excited to be working with the team for this year’s Christmas campaign.

“The work they do it vital and they have helped save countless lives across the county.

“We are really hoping people across north Essex get involved to help raise as much money as possible for this cause.”

Each time the helicopter goes to a mission it costs just over £2,700.

This adds up to about £5.8million a year for both aircraft, including aircraft operations and charitable costs.

The bulk of the charity’s income comes from its successful lottery campaign.

It costs £1 a week and people are in with a chance of winning £1,000 every week.

Since it was set up in 1998 it has raised £16million, with 13,689 winners.

Head of fundraising Carly Duffett said: “It is a major source of income for the charity.

It is so important because it is a sustained income. We know it’s coming in so we can budget and forecast.”

Braintree and Witham Times:

                                Head of fundraising Carly Duffett   

But alongside that they rely on charity events, community fundraising and sponsorship to keep going.

Ms Duffett added: “There is always an event happening for the air ambulance.

“Everyone has heard a story about the charity. You never know if you’re going to need the air ambulance.

“There is also a feeling of ownership, which I think is important.”

How to get involved

We want you to organise your own fundraiser towards the campaign on Yellow Day, Friday, December 12.

For more information or to tell us what you've got planned call the newsdesk on 01206 508432 or email zoe.forsey@nqe.com.

To donate to our campaign call 03452417690 or text HELI25 to 70700.

Alternatively you can donate online by clicking here.