The air ambulance has called on members of the public to help raise vital funds so it can continue to play its part in combatting the Covid-19 pandemic.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance (HIOWAA) has asked supporters to walk three, five or 10 miles as part of their daily exercise in January as part of fundraising efforts.

The appeal follows news that the charity, which has been co-ordinating with organisations such as the RAF and coastguard during the pandemic, is approaching its 10,000th flight since being founded in 2007.

HIOWAA CEO, Alex Lochrane, says: “Right now, everyone needs something to strive for, and a goal to go for, and I really hope that launching Miles for Missions will encourage our supporters to raise vital funds for us.

“Approaching 10,000 flights is a tremendous achievement and is testament to the hard work of so many people, day after day. Most importantly, it reminds me of the dedication and generosity we are shown – day after day - by our local communities; none of what we do would be possible without their support.”

As pat of ‘Miles for Missions’, members of the public are being asked to cover three, five or 10 miles in a walk across the weekend of January 30. Registration will cost £10, with those who fundraise at least £25 receiving a t-shirt for participating.

HIOWAA has asked all participants to adhere to the latest government guidance surrounding coronavirus restrictions, particularly regarding travel restrictions and social distancing.

The money will go towards keeping the charity’s services going, which cost around £15,000 per today to carry out. In addition to the air ambulance, HIOWAA also operates emergency response vehicles, particularly for use in urban areas where a helicopter may not be able to land.

The organisation receives no government funding, but works alongside a number of bodies such as the NHS, ambulance service, RAF and coastguard.

To find out more, and sign up for the event, visit: https://www.hiowaa.org/event/miles-for-missions/