Air Ambulance flew more than 700 missions in Derbyshire in 2020

The dedicated crews were tasked to 3,410 missions via helicopter and critical care car, with DLRAA responding to 2,043 of the call outs – including 727 in Derbyshire.

Andy Williamson, the charity’s chief executive, said: “The pandemic has had a significant impact on so many including our own lifesaving charity.

“We have faced a projected net loss of income of at least £2.2 million for the months April to June last year, and worryingly we have started 2021 with another lockdown.

“Despite these losses and the multiple lockdowns, our 24/7 lifesaving service celebrated its 40,000th mission milestone last year, and has continued to remain on the frontline, fully operational for those who need us.”

To continue to deliver their clinical excellence, the charity will be bringing their two brand new replacement aircraft online imminently which will continue to have critical care paramedics and doctors on-board.

"These are able to perform out of hospital surgical procedures from thoracotomies and caesareans to amputations by the roadside – so support for them during this time is crucial.

“As a charity, our mission is clear – to continue providing leading pre-hospital emergency care to our patients and to support the NHS.

"But in order to do this we need the support of people within our communities now more than ever before.

The charity has again had to temporarily close its chain of 56 stores during this third national lockdown, and community fundraising events remain on hold until the foreseeable future.

The charity is urging the public to continue supporting them through donations, virtual fundraising events, and by shopping with them online.

To support the service, visit www.theairambulanceservice.org.uk or call 0300 3045999.