More people are becoming critically ill or injured, say Wiltshire Air Ambulance who have been called out to more jobs than last year. 

Between January and June this year, Wiltshire Air Ambulance was called to 682 incidents, marking a 25% increase compared to the previous year, according to the charity's latest report.

"Unfortunately, this has been the busiest start to a year on record for Wiltshire Air Ambulance Charity," Richard Miller, Safety and Ground Operations Manager said.

In Salisbury alone, the air ambulance responded to 37 calls, with six patients transferred to Salisbury District Hospital.

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Richard said: “It means more people are becoming critically ill or injured across Wiltshire and Bath, requiring the skills and expertise of our aircrew.

“We have a very dedicated crew – consisting of pilots, paramedics and doctors – who have been responding to emergencies, on average, around four times every day so far this year.

“However, we would not be able to carry out this lifesaving work if it wasn’t for the amazing donors and local businesses who help our charity by raising vital funds to keep our helicopter flying and saving lives.”

Funding these efforts costs £4.5 million annually, equivalent to £12,000 per day. On average, Wiltshire Air Ambulance handles three incidents daily with its helicopter and critical care cars, underscoring its vital role in the community.