The Kent, Surrey & Sussex Air Ambulance  (KSSA) has received a vital cash boost with a donation of £16,000 from the Freemasons Grand Charity. Representatives of masonic lodges from across Kent recently visited the Air Ambulance at its headquarters in Marden to make the donation. Whilst there, they had the opportunity to look around one of the two helicopters and meet the crew and support staff who keep it flying.

Herne Bay Freemason Paul McKenzie said: “It was an absolute privilege to take part in this presentation and meet the crew. What a worthy cause and a truly remarkable team.”

Responding to 999 calls and operating from Marden and Redhill in Surrey, KSSA’s helicopters can reach any part of Kent, Surrey or Sussex in under 25 minutes. Since their first mission in 1989 they have responded to over 25,000 incidents and are now able to provide a response 24 hours a day. The charity has plans to improve the service further by establishing a single operational base at Paddock Wood in Kent.

KSSA Chief Executive Adrian Bell commented: “We are extremely grateful to East Kent Freemasons for such a generous donation.

“The support they have given us over the years is really appreciated, having previously donated many thousands of pounds to the charity.

“This latest donation comes at a particularly important time for the charity as we commission a new helicopter and address our needs for a new base to allow us to ensure that the service we provide for patients is the best it can possibly be.”

Speaking about the donation, Peter Rodd, Head of Charity for East Kent Freemasons said: “It is impossible to underestimate the value of the work the Air Ambulance in saving lives as well as providing emergency care when and where it is most needed. We hope this donation helps keep the service moving forward with its plans for the future.”