A few days ago I was out for my post-prandial perambulation (that's after dinner walk in simpler terms) the sound of a low flying helicopter filled the air. As we live in an area with considerable naval interest such sounds are not rare.
I stopped to look for the helicopter, and follow it's progress. Well, it wasn't a military craft, but the Cornwall Air Ambulance. It flew into view from behind some trees, swung round and looked to be heading out, possibly to a section of road known for accidents.
I continued my walk, which was cutting up through a local school. The helicopter was still in view, and now turning and losing altitude. I assumed it was landing at a football field across the road. Instead, it headed for the school field I was approaching.
It was too good an opportunity to miss. I stood by an outbuilding and took snaps of the helicopter landing.
Cornwall's Air Ambulance is funded entirely by voluntary donations. Neither local nor central government finances it. That is both the craft and crew. It has sufficient funding to provide 24/7 cover for pilots and paramedics.
While the paramedics hurried off to deal with the emergency that required them, the pilot was happy to talk about the helicopter and its operation to the folks who had gathered.
He mentioned that they had been heading for the football field I thought they were. But seeing folks using the roadway into the school, they knew there was access from the school to the roadway and changed their landing spot.
Readers, I was the only person on that roadway as they came past. Standing in the middle of the school roadway while holding my phone to capture the helicopter going past was enough to let them land about 10 minutes walk closer to the place needed.
I said nothing then, but I telling you. Why? When you see emergency responders, take interest. If you're in a vehicle, look how you can get out their way; if you are walking, be aware of where they are going, and where you are.
Anyway. If you can support your local air ambulance, do so.
text and pictures by stuartcturnbull