You have risen to the challenge, raising in excess of £15,000 to date in just nine weeks and writing your own amazing story in the history of the Melton Times. The response to our Bring £1 To Work Day on February 29 was truly uplifting.

The motto of the new Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance - operational from East Midlands Airport from Tuesday - is 'help us today, you may need us tomorrow' and it almost goes without saying that the need goes on.

The money you have already raised - and more is coming in every day - will pay for 15 life-saving missions, but the air ambulance will need £1.5m a year if it is to keep flying and there are a number of way in which you can keep helping.

Shops can ask for a collection box, businesses can become corporate sponsors, schools, community groups and workmates can organise a fundraising event.

Individuals can take up a challenge and drum up sponsorship, become a volunteer representing the air ambulance or make a regular monthly donation.

For more information contact regional fundraising manager Barbara Parish on (0115) 925 1863/0788 253 9214, e-mail b.j.parish@hotmail.co.uk or reporter Ben Truslove on (01664) 412522, e-mail ben.truslove@meltontimes.co.uk

And don't forget the Lions Swimarathon at Waterfield Leisure Pools on Saturday, April 19 as our air ambulance appeal will be one of three charities to benefit. For an entry form call Brian Johnson at the Melton Times on (01664) 512517 or e-mail brian.johnson@meltontimes.co.uk

Thank you again for the support you have shown our angel of the skies and giving her wings.
Michael Cooke
Editor