The aim of the BBC Radio Devon Air Ambulance Appeal is to not only raise the profile of the charity, but also to encourage and engage BBC Radio Devon listeners to help raise in the region of £600,000 in order to facilitate the ordering of a new EC135, to replace the current leased aircraft. 

This campaign is extremely important.  It not only enables us to communicate with a large number of our supporters and future supporters at the same time, but  also further raise the profile of what the service does, and what the charity does in order to raise the £4 million needed annually, together with the people behind the scenes. 

We already own one of our helicopters, which went into operation in October 2008.  We have proved since this time that it saves the charity money - saving in excess of £10,000 each month.  This means every single £1 donated by the community, businesses and friends of Devon goes that bit further.  It was logical to look forward and do the same with the other aircraft, which is leased, and comes up for renewal in 2013.  

Sarah Solftley, Assistant Editor of BBC Radio Devon said:  "We know we have taken on a huge challenge in setting a target of raising £600,000 towards the cost of buying a new helicopter, but we know that our staff and our audience are up to the challenge. 
  
As well as raising money throughout the year, we also want to make our audiences better aware of the service, what it provides and to regularly feature the compelling human stories behind each callout, each volunteer, each fundraiser, each event.  

We are asking our audience to be a part of the appeal by staging their own fundraising events, and taking part in events we organise.   

People who would like to get involved or make a donation to the BBC Radio Devon Air Ambulance Appeal can call 01392 466666 or go to bbc.co.uk/devon