THE launch of a life-saving charity’s festive fundraising campaign got off to a flying start after staff were joined by a not-so-jolly, green, gate-crashing Grinch.

Bringing some festive fun to the event, the Essex and Herts Air Ambulance (EHAAT) was joined by the Maldon Grinch.

With the air ambulance attending 210 missions throughout the festive season last year, Santa won’t be the only one flying at Christmas and the charity is calling on residents to join in with festive fundraising this year.

The charity says there are lots of ways for people of all ages to fundraise for the cause.

Maldon and Burnham Standard:

This includes a ‘Festive Pyjama Challenge’ where people come up with a challenge they can do in their Christmassy PJs.

Continuing the theme, ‘Wear your Festive PJs to Work Week’, encourages supporters to gather their staff together to wear their Yuletide pyjamas during the week starting on December 5.

Whether based in an office or working from home, all EHAAT asks is that you share photos of your festive set-up and make a £2 donation for each person taking part.

If you really want to get into the festive mood and donate a bit more, for an extra £2 donation, people are being asked to ‘Deck Your Desk’.

Maldon and Burnham Standard:

Air ambulance spokesman Emma Barker said: “You can Illuminate your home with lights and decorations, host festive fundraisers like mince pie mornings, Christmas jumper days, craft sales and carol singing, or buy tickets for our winter raffle.

“You can also purchase gift wrapping, Christmas cards, branded notepads and socks - a seasonal favourite - from our online shop at www.ehaat.org.

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“Our committed team remains dedicated, ready and able to save lives when someone is having the worst day of their life – even on Christmas Day.

“That’s why we need support from people and businesses this festive season.

“It all helps to keep us operational, and our fundraising elves are ready and waiting to hear from you to help your fundraising take off.”

To support EHAAT,visit www.ehaat.org/festive or its Just Giving page at https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/festive2022.