LIONS Clubs across the South East have successfully raised £250,000 to support the Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance in its ambition to deliver a Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) 24 hours a day.

The Lions pledged in June 2012 to raise the sum over 10 years for the charity, which began operating a 24-hour service just over a year later – the Lions have now reached the target five years ahead of schedule.

Some members were given a tour of the Redhill-based aircraft with a presentation by Leigh Curtis, director of operations, who told them more than 1,600 patients had benefitted from the 24-hour service.

Howard Lee, chairman of the South East Lions Night Flying Appeal, said: “Lions are all about helping those in need within the community, which is exactly what the air ambulance is there for. We are really pleased to have been the catalyst to the development of the night flying service, and we will continue to work with them in other ways to help save more lives.”

Prior to night operation, the Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance operated two helicopters, with two crews working during daylight hours only.

Then, in 2013, the charity replaced one of its aircraft with a newer helicopter, with night-flying capabilities, covering Kent, Surrey and Sussex from Redhill.

Some of the £250,000 raised by the Lions was used to buy two response cars to allow the doctor and paramedic team to deliver enhanced care to patients throughout the night.

The charity’s fundraising director Lynne Harris said: “We are so grateful to the Lions for achieving their incredible fundraising target at this early stage. They should be immensely proud of the difference they have made to those who need us.

“We are delighted our partnership with the Lions is set to continue.”