Meet our Team

I joined the charity in September 2022 after spending much of my career working in international humanitarian response, most recently I was the Humanitarian Lead at both Oxfam GB and Care International UK. This followed previous spells working overseas in Afghanistan, DRC, Sierra Leone and South Sudan. I have seen first-hand the need to be there for people when they most need support both internationally and far closer to home.

I have also had spells as Chief Executive of Healthwatch Bucks and Reading Voluntary Action both organisations supporting the local community and charity sectors. Along with being Operations Director at Gap Activity Project, a year out provider, having started my career with a short spell in the Army.

Meeting former patients and their families constantly provides the motivation for me to go the extra mile to find ways to continuously build and develop the services we offer. A task that is made so much easier to achieve thanks to the dynamic team of crew, staff and volunteers.

I have raised lots of money for charity running marathons dressed in various costumes. At one point holding the very unofficial World Record for connected marathon running, six people dressed as a Centipede! Though given the importance of our lottery, the following years run as a set of seven lottery balls is probably more appropriate to mention. These runs also started an early collaboration in the Air Ambulance sector, as by coincidence one of the running team is now the Chief Executive of East Anglia Air Ambulance.

I began working for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance in March 2009 as Administration Manager, having spent the previous 15 years managing other charities in the south.

My career here has progressed through Charity Manager to Director of Charity Operations and Deputy Chief Executive. My department is Charity Operations looking after administration, volunteering, data management and control, and the facilities of both the Charity Head Office and the Airbase.

My experience in the charity sector has given me insight into how good charities should be run and managed. I can honestly say HIOWAA is the best charity that I have ever worked for, and this is due to; the volunteers who donate so much of their invaluable time and talent; our enormously generous donors throughout Hampshire and the Isle of Wight; my wonderful colleagues who make every day different, exciting and challenging; our clinical colleagues who work their magic every day saving lives, and the amazing and moving stories of thanks which we receive from patients and their families. They make it all worthwhile.

In 2017 I took part in our first 5K Runway Run at Southampton Airport, coming in last! I think next time I might run it, instead of walking.

I started working at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance in early 2021. As Director of Income and Engagement, I work with our Marketing, Development and Supporter Engagement teams to raise awareness of the vital work we do and give those that choose to support us an excellent experience.

I work alongside some truly remarkable individuals. Our pilots and crew are uniquely talented and driven. So too are those in our charity team. The result is an organisation which refuses to stand still and is always looking for ways to improve and to grow. That makes every day an adventure and I am inspired to play my small part.

I have done lots of treks and challenges to raise money for charity over the years. I’m very keen to return to the Himalayas and attempt a few 6,000 metre peaks, or summit Mount Vinson in Antarctica.

Michael’s ambulance career began in 2005 at Oxfordshire Ambulance Service (now part of SCAS), where he trained as a Technician and Paramedic before moving to London Ambulance Service, completing a secondment with London’s Air Ambulance.

In 2011 he joined South East Coast Ambulance Service, and worked as a Critical Care Paramedic, Clinical Manager with Air Ambulance Kent Surrey Sussex and finally as a Consultant Paramedic, before moving to Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance in 2020.

He holds an MSc in Advanced Paramedic Practice (Critical Care), the Diploma in Immediate Medical Care (RCSEd) and a PGCert in Teaching and Learning in Higher Education.

He has previously worked as a part-time university lecturer and still enjoys teaching where time allows, including on adult and paediatric Advanced Life Support courses in the region.

Louisa Specialises in Emergency Medicine, Intensive Care Medicine and Pre-hospital Emergency Medicine (PHEM).
Based in Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust where she is the current Clinical Director of Unscheduled Care. Has flown with HIOWAA since 2005. Previously worked in London with the Physician Response Unit and London HEMS.
Strong education interest – is the PHEM training program director for Wessex HEE, examiner for the DIMC held at the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh and HIOWAA medical training lead.

Enthusiastic runner, expert shopper, chocolate connoisseur, will sleep when she is dead.

Lady Montagu settled in Hampshire in 2005 when she married Hon Ralph Montagu, heir to the Beaulieu Estate.

Born and raised in The Netherlands, she read languages at Oxford University and has worked in Belgium, the Netherlands and London as an editor, journalist and translator.

She is also Archives Officer to the First Aid Nursing Yeomanry (FANY), the UK’s only all-woman military unit and part of the city of London’s emergency response team.

‘Being a member of the FANY has in some ways prepared me for involvement with the Association of Air Ambulances. Both are voluntary organisations, both are permanently on call and both bring together people from all walks of life who are resourceful and ready to be of service.’

Ailsa has been Patron of HIOWAA since the service first began operating on 1 July 2007. Both the Charity and the first flight were launched from Beaulieu with her involvement. ‘Like most people, I assumed that the Air Ambulances were state-funded, and was amazed to learn that they get no government or even lottery support. Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance relies entirely on public donations. Yet the service it provides is something we absolutely can not do without if we want to save lives.’

‘When I was part of a group being taught First Aid, we were taken through various life-saving treatments. But the most important thing we were told was that speed was of the essence. Speed is what the Air Ambulance is about. Whether it’s a congested town centre or a remote rural area – and Hampshire and the Isle of Wight have both – there are some incidents that only a helicopter can get to quickly enough. Not only this, but with our team of paramedics and doctors, we are literally able to bring the hospital to the patient.’

‘The fact that Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance has been steadily expanding its service to the community since the start of flying operations just eleven years ago is a tribute to the commitment of our volunteers and to the generosity of the public. With your support we will continue to save lives and provide emergency medical support where and when it is needed most.’

David is a local councillor and has previously worked for both the BBC and British Aerospace in an engineering capacity.

At the BBC he worked as both a TV studio engineer and latterly in sales, travelling to the Americas as well as the Far and Middle East. He worked as part of a small team at British Aerospace refurbishing Egyptian Air Force MiG21s. David is a governor at a County special school as well as a trustee for an Independent school in Andover. He served with the Royal Auxiliary Air Force during the 1980’s which is where he met his wife. They have two children and live just outside Andover. He became a trustee in February 2016.

Andy is a chartered accountant, having worked in practice for PWC and in the financial services  sector for Barclays and HSBC.  Since retiring in 2013 Andy and family split their time between homes in the New Forest and on the Isle of Wight.

He is a keen yachtsman and golfer, having been a member at Stoneham Golf Club in Southampton for over 20 years. He became a Trustee in February 2016.

Andy was the first director of the neurosciences intensive care unit at University Hospital Southampton, one of the country’s leading units for the care of patients with severe brain and spinal injuries. He subsequently led the development of the Wessex Trauma Network and was the director of the major trauma centre at Southampton. With Prof. Charles Deakin and Dr. David Sutton he led the successful development of the helipad at UHS. He was a founder member of the Department of Health Clinical Advisory group for the development of trauma networks and has recently been part of a national review into the provision of care for patients with spinal cord injury.

He lives with his wife, two children and a cocker spaniel on the border of Wiltshire and Hampshire.

Ben Rogers is a solicitor and Partner in a litigation only law firm, with offices in London and Leeds. He specialises in representing claimants who have suffered catastrophic personal injury and has particular expertise in spinal cord, brain, amputee, complex orthopaedic and burns injuries. He has a special interest in technology and was the first lawyer to secure landmark damages for the purchase and replacement of REX Bionics and Ekso Bionics exoskeletons.

He is married and lives with his wife and their three children near Petersfield, Hampshire.

David was selected to be a trustee in June 2021 – he is a young property developer working across both commercial and residential sectors. His focus is to encourage his generation, amongst others, to support HIOWAA in any way possible. David has always lived near Alresford and where he is often found on a bicycle! He is married with a young daughter.

Graham is a trauma and orthopaedic surgeon in the Royal Navy. He has had extensive experience in managing trauma in conflict zones and has spent six months in Sierra Leone during the Ebola crisis. He is presently engaged in managing Medical Operational Capability for the Royal Navy and has been involved with the UK response to the migrant crisis in the Mediterranean and more recently the hurricane relief effort in the Caribbean.

Married with four grown up children, he is a keen cyclist and often takes part in charity cycling events around the country.

Peter Taylor is a Chartered Accountant, trained in London, who ran his own practice on the Isle of Wight, which he sold 15 years ago.  He was the last chairman of the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Magistrates Courts Committee until its demise and was a magistrate for 25 years.  Peter was also a Non-Executive Director and Audit Chair of the Isle of Wight NHS Trust for 7½ years until 2014.

He has been the Clerk to the Governors of Ryde School for the last 20 years and lives on the Isle of Wight.

Gwen has extensive experience of working with people who have learning disabilities, families, advocates, health professionals and others to improve the quality of health experiences and outcomes.

In 2016 she was awarded an OBE for services to nursing and people with learning disabilities. She now works as an independent Consultant Nurse and Honorary Senior Fellow with Kingston University & St George’s University of London.

Gwen lives in the New Forest with her husband Steve and their dog Penny.

Rebecca joins the Board of Trustees with a wealth of experience in Executive leadership, Operations, Transformation and Strategy. Having started her career in the Army, she deployed on a number of operational tours of duty, before leaving to pursue a career in professional services. Most recently, she has worked in Executive Leadership roles for technology companies in Hampshire, leading operations and strategic programmes.

Rebecca lives on the south coast in Hampshire with her partner and young family. A passionate supporter of HIOWAA, she enjoys a wide range of sports, and can be regularly found on outdoor adventures running around after her 3 young boys!

Steve works for AQA examinations board as a member of the Operations Senior Leadership team. Prior to joining AQA, he spent 17 years in IT distribution in a number of leadership roles. Outside of work he is a passionate volunteer serving as Chairman of the Southern Premier Cricket League, a school governor for a special needs school, sits in both the adult criminal and family courts as a Magistrate and is listening volunteer at Samaritans. He was previously chairman of trustees for his local Samaritans branch and took responsibility for training in the region.

He is nearing the end of an eight year term as a trustee for Winchester University’s Student Union. Steve was made an MBE in the 2018 New Year’s Honors’ List for his voluntary service in Hampshire and is also a Fellow of the Chartered Management Institute.

Living in Andover, when not working or volunteering he can be found enjoying a cruise holiday or a cricket match in the sun.

Ben is a consultant anaesthetist in Salisbury. After beginning his medical training in Bristol, he joined the military, serving with airborne and commando forces around the world for 18 years. He trained in pre-hospital medicine with the Surf Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter in Sydney, Australia and subsequently worked on the Medical Emergency Response Team helicopter in Afghanistan. He joined the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance in 2013.

Job title: Consultant in Pre-hospital Emergency Medicine.

Chris joined HIOWAA in 2014 and also works for University Hospital Southampton as a Consultant in Emergency Medicine and is the current clinical lead for the service.

Chris said: “After completing my training in Emergency Medicine I knew that Air Ambulance work was something I wanted to do, in addition to my hospital career and at the time there was no dedicated training program so over a two year period I worked in Australia for the Sydney Air Ambulance and then back in the UK for the Kent, Surrey & Sussex Air Ambulance. This gave me a great head start in the professional world of Air Ambulance work.

I worked in Sydney, Australia for almost a year. Their service is very different to ours, being a mix of roles of what our Coast Guard helicopter, Air Ambulance and also land based transport teams do in the UK. This meant we trained for a number of scenarios like winch operations, canyon rescue, as well as complex inter-hospital transfers.

I am part of the training team at HIOWAA and help to look after our doctors in training, keeping an eye on their progress and mentoring them as required.

My proudest moments working for HIOWAA are the patient stories. Every time I hear of a life saved or time when we made a difference makes me feel incredibly proud of the team.

The standout moments, for me, are the little moments. Landing at Thruxton after a long day with a beautiful sunset, or taking off in a snow covered field. Times that reinforce what a privileged position we have, working for an Air Ambulance.

Outside of work, my family and cycling keep me on my toes and fit!

My top tip: Always tuck your shoelaces in, you never know when they might get snagged!”

Ewan has been a member of the team since 2008. Pre-hospital medicine is very important to him, and he has been part of providing it in Hampshire since 2004 through the Charity BASICS of which he is currently chairman.
Ewan is also a consultant in Emergency Medicine for Hampshire Hospital Foundation Trust in Winchester and Basingstoke. The father of three is kept busy beyond medicine by his children.

Frances attended and graduated from the University of Liverpool medical school and then worked in Merseyside for a further two years as a junior doctor. In 2008 Frances headed for the sun and began working in Gosford Hospital, NSW followed by Liverpool Hospital, NSW, Australia. In 2017 she completed her emergency specialist training and began working as an emergency consultant. This opened up the opportunity for Frances to work for Sydney HEMS.

In 2019 Frances returned to the UK and began flying with HIOWAA. For her, each patients’ story is unique and if she can help make their bad day a little better, it’s been worthwhile. Her standout moment for HIOWAA was the team building Lego challenge: “Everyone still has an inner child,” says Frances.

She enjoys being outdoors: running, country walks, stand up Paddle boarding (SUPing), listening to live music, enjoying good food and drinks with friends. And wants to give a special mention to her parents, who have supported her ambitions and adventures and waited patiently for her to return to the UK!

“Do not judge me by my successes, judge me by how many times I fell down and got back up again.”

Gordon is a consultant in critical care and anaesthesia at Queen Alexandra Hospital Portsmouth having previously worked in Australia and Baltimore Shock Trauma. Having served with regular and TA airborne units he helped develop the helicopter emergency retrieval system currently used in Afghanistan. He has also worked with an International Red Cross Field Surgical Team covering the Afghan conflict.

Hania is a consultant anaesthetist at University Hospital Southampton who specialises in major trauma and vascular anaesthesia. Her medical training started in Poland where she worked for the Polish Ambulance Service while obtaining her degree and completed her training at King’s College Hospital in London. She also spent a year working full time for Kent Surrey Sussex Air Ambulance. Since completing her speciality training, Hania has gained a postgraduate degree in medical education and has organised and taught on many medical courses in the UK and abroad.

Hania enjoys voluntary and charity work and has participated in several international aid and training events in Vietnam, Iraq, Kenya, Malta and Egypt. In the UK she often provides medical support at major sports events such as marathons and Tough Mudder races.

Hania is an active member of UKMED: an organisation which provides rapid medical help to areas impacted by natural disasters across the world.

In her spare time, Hania sails competitively and enjoys Latin dancing.

Iain has been a Consultant in Emergency Medicine at University Hospital Southampton for 15 years and a Consultant in Pre Hospital Emergency Medicine with Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance since 2013. Iain qualified in 1998 and over the past 20 years has trained and practised medicine in major teaching hospitals both in the UK and overseas.

Iain has a strong interest in undergraduate and postgraduate education and as well as being an Honorary Senior Clinical Lecturer at the University of Southampton, is also a member of the editorial board of St Emlyn’s – an online blog and podcast. Iain is also a highly regarded advisor to television medical dramas, including Casualty and Good Karma Hospital.

An acclaimed speaker, Iain has spoken at international conferences in Australia, Ireland, Austria and Germany as well as across the UK. You will find him on Twitter as @docib.

Job title: Consultant in Anaesthesia, Perioperative Medicine and Pre-Hospital Emergency Medicine.

I started with HIOWAA in 2019. I was appointed as a PHEM (Pre-Hospital Emergency Medicine) trainee after I had finished my anaesthetic training. I also work at University Hospital Southampton as a Consultant in anaesthesia and perioperative medicine. My next major goal is to complete my PhD.

Prior to working with HIOWAA I worked in New Zealand with their HEMS service (Helicopter Emergency Medicine).

One of the most rewarding things working with HIOWAA is when we receive thank you letters or cards from patients or their relatives.

Life outside of work is very busy. I have a beautiful wife named Rachel and 3 kids Freya, Theo and Reuben. My passion is cycling of all kinds! I’m also a big fan of the sport and want to progress into coaching youngsters.

My favourite quote: “Your head matters more than your legs” the late Marco Pantani and “Age and treachery will overcome youth and skill” Fausto Coppi.

Jonathan is a consultant anaesthetist at University Hospital Southampton. He graduated from medical school at the University of Nottingham before working as a doctor in the Midlands and Sydney, Australia, where he worked in emergency medicine and intensive care medicine.

Jonathan returned to the UK in 2013 before heading back down under to fly with the Sydney Helicopter Emergency Medical Service in 2021.

Originally from Newcastle, Jonathan joined Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance in 2022 and is looking forward to using his clinical skills to give the best possible care to those who need it most.

Jonathan said, “I am thrilled to be joining Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance! I am excited to be working with such an inspiring team who are so passionate about providing the best critical care to the people of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, whenever and wherever they need it. I feel truly privileged to be able to do this job, which would not be possible without the amazing support from our local community – thank you!”

As well as working for HIOWAA as a pre-hospital doctor, Liz Shewry is an anaesthetist at University Hospital Southampton (UHS), specialising in patients with Major trauma. After studying medicine in Cardiff Liz went to work in Perth, Western Australia. On her return Liz worked in South Wales but missed the beach and hence moved down to Dorset to study anaesthetics. In 2010 she moved to Sydney, Australia to train in pre-hospital medicine and enjoyed working there so much she stayed for an extra year. She’s been with HIOWAA since her return in 2012 and is excited by all the great changes to the service over the past few years.

Liz is interested in education and training and is part of the HIOWAA training group, helping to develop the new base training suite and pre-hospital training for junior doctors, starting in August. At UHS, when not looking after patients, she also works in education in major trauma and training using simulation technology to improve patient care. She has an interest in global health and regularly runs training courses in West Africa. She enjoys music, travelling and being outdoors (especially if it’s sunny).

Louisa Specialises in Emergency Medicine, Intensive Care Medicine and Pre-hospital Emergency Medicine (PHEM).
Based in Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust where she is the current Clinical Director of Unscheduled Care. Has flown with HIOWAA since 2005. Previously worked in London with the Physician Response Unit and London HEMS.
Strong education interest – is the PHEM training program director for Wessex HEE, examiner for the DIMC held at the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh and HIOWAA medical training lead.

Enthusiastic runner, expert shopper, chocolate connoisseur, will sleep when she is dead.

Matt is a senior registrar in anaesthesia based at University Hospital Southampton and started training in pre-hosptial medicine in August 2017. Matt has completed most of his training in Bristol and spent time working in Western Australia. He moved into the region specifically to work with HIOWAA.

Matt spends his time away from work with his wife and two children and enjoys mountain biking, kite-surfing and skiing.

Rob is a Consultant in Emergency Medicine at Southampton General Hospital and started working at HIOWAA in August 2017.

Since qualifying from medical school in 2004 in Cardiff, Rob has worked in South Wales, the south coast of England, South Africa, Iceland and Rwanda.

He is married to a wonderful wife called Polly and the father of 3 little girls. He enjoys sleeping under canvas, making dens, cooking over a fire, running and cycling with his most extreme bike ride being his wife’s idea; cycling unsupported from South Africa to the UK!

His favourite quotes are: ‘Just keep swimming’ Dory in finding nemo. ‘Nothing beats kindness’ said the horse ‘it sits quietly beyond all things’. Charlie Mackesy, The boy the mole, the fox and the horse.

Simon is a Consultant Anaesthetist. He spent sixteen years with the RAF and has been working in helicopter prehospital care since 2006 including in Afghanistan (RAF), Australia (Careflight) and in the UK first with Thames Valley & Chiltern Air Ambulance and with the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Air Ambulance since 2012. Away from work he is married with two children and when time allows he loves skiing and flying light aircraft as a private pilot.

Tim is a Consultant in Anaesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine, working mainly in the Neurosciences Intensive Care Unit in Southampton. Prior to working at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance, his principal Pre-hospital Care practice was in Afghanistan in the Army.

Aside from trauma, Tim has an interest in Chemical Biological Radiological and Nuclear Medicine with research experience of lung damaging agents and caring for Ebola patients in Sierra Leone during the 2014 outbreak.

Outside of work Tim enjoys amateur Entomology and is an avid beetle recorder with a passion for identifying insect pictures sent to him by his colleagues.

Casey started training with the ambulance service in 2010, whilst studying Paramedic Emergency Care at Oxford Brookes University. She then undertook further training within South Central Ambulance Service and qualified as a Specialist Paramedic (Urgent Care) in 2016.

After working in the Urgent Care side of healthcare for a couple of years, Casey sought a different challenge and joined the Hazardous Area Response Team (HART). This included regular major incident training, managing patients in dangerous environments as well as solo working on rapid response vehicles.

In 2021 Casey joined Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance as a HEMS Paramedic and will be commencing university training this year towards becoming a Specialist Paramedic (Critical Care).

In her spare time, Casey enjoys stand-up paddleboarding, open water swimming, CrossFit and walking her dog.

Clare graduated as a paramedic in 2011 having undertaken her student paramedic training with South Central Ambulance Service.

She commenced her Specialist Paramedic (Critical Care) training in 2018 with Thames Valley Air Ambulance before joining HIOWAA in March 2022.

She holds the Diploma in Immediate Medical care (DipIMC) from the Royal College of Surgeons in Edinburgh and is completing an MSc in Advanced Clinical Practice.

Clare also volunteers as an Expedition Medic with the British Exploring Society and has been lucky enough to travel around the world including spending time in the Peruvian Jungle and Iceland.

Outside of work Clare enjoys cycling, running and triathlons – though is yet to learn how to swim properly! She also loves exploring new places and is always looking for the next fun adventure.

Dave graduated as a paramedic in 2012, taking up a voluntary role on a charity expedition down the Missouri River, before starting with South Central Ambulance Service.
Dave spent five years working in the Hazardous Area Response Team, where he was also deployed to South Sudan as a paramedic for the UN.
Prior to starting with HIOWAA, Dave graduated alongside colleague Lou Wigmore from University of Southampton with a BSc in Clinical Practice.
Outside of work Dave enjoys cycling, climbing, stand up paddle-boarding and making DIY look difficult!

Job title: Advanced Clinical Practitioner / HEMS Paramedic

I joined HIOWAA 2020 and I also work at University Hospital Southampton as an Advanced Clinical Practitioner. I worked in South Central Ambulance Service for 7 years before.

I trained as a paramedic doing a FDSc degree at UWE, worked in SCAS as a paramedic then as a specialist paramedic in urgent care. I completed by MSc in advanced practice along with a 3 year national training program to become an ACP. I then joined HIOWAA part time in addition to continuing as an ACP.

Outside of work, I enjoy running and hiking with my dog and wife.

Jason moved to Oxford from Devon in 2010 to study Paramedic Emergency Care at Oxford Brookes. After graduating in 2012 he started working with SCAS as a Paramedic based in Oxford, where part of his role was to mentor and develop students. Having always been interested in critical care he was successful in joining HIOWAA in October 2016 as a HEMS Paramedic. Outside of work he enjoys swimming, the coast and attempting to surf.

John has worked for HIOWAA since 2010 and currently balances helicopter and car shifts with his role as paramedic clinical governance lead. He is about to complete his MSc. in Advanced Clinical Practice at Southampton University, and when not working or studying, you’ll find him on a paddleboard or in the gym.

Julian joined HIOWAA in December 2018 to pursue a career in critical care.
After qualifying from Monash University as a Paramedic in 2014, he moved from Australia to London to work for the London Ambulance Service. Working in Westminster Julian gained a large amount of experience, including developing and mentoring international paramedics and paramedic students, as well as providing further support to colleagues in the role of international liaison.
In Julian’s spare time he enjoys travelling and surfing. He is also hoping that this year the ashes will be brought home.

Louise joined Royal Berkshire Ambulance Service in 2000 as an Ambulance Technician and was based at Newbury and Reading, qualifying as a Paramedic in 2005. She completed a year-long secondment  as an Advanced Care Paramedic in Australia for Queensland Ambulance Service in 2008. She  returned to Reading for a short while before becoming part of the newly formed Hazardous Area Response Team within South Central Ambulance  Service in 2011, up until joining Hampshire ad Isle of Wight Air Ambulance.

Louise is currently studying part-time at the University of Southampton for a BSc in Clinical Practice.

Away from work she participates in many sports, but especially enjoys white water kayaking, cycling and surfing.

Lucy started training with the ambulance service in 2012, whilst studying Paramedic Emergency Care at Oxford Brookes University. Having qualified as a paramedic, Lucy joined South Central Ambulance Service where she undertook further training to allow her to work as a Specialist Paramedic in Berkshire. Lucy also teaches Paramedic students at Oxford Brookes University, and is an instructor for the Resuscitation Council around the UK.

Outside of work, she has a keen interest in sustainable living and cycling and she regularly practices yoga.

Michael’s ambulance career began in 2005 at Oxfordshire Ambulance Service (now part of SCAS), where he trained as a Technician and Paramedic before moving to London Ambulance Service, completing a secondment with London’s Air Ambulance.

In 2011 he joined South East Coast Ambulance Service, and worked as a Critical Care Paramedic, Clinical Manager with Air Ambulance Kent Surrey Sussex and finally as a Consultant Paramedic, before moving to Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance in 2020.

He holds an MSc in Advanced Paramedic Practice (Critical Care), the Diploma in Immediate Medical Care (RCSEd) and a PGCert in Teaching and Learning in Higher Education.

He has previously worked as a part-time university lecturer and still enjoys teaching where time allows, including on adult and paediatric Advanced Life Support courses in the region.

Mike joined our HEMS team in June 2015, having begun his career as a student Paramedic with East of England Ambulance Service in 2007. He  qualified as a Paramedic in 2010, joining South Central Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust in 2011 and going on to become a Clinical Mentor to one of the teams at Bletchley Ambulance Station.  Throughout this time he provided clinical support to a wide variety of staff members and helped develop and build the practices of a number of students.  He is the father to two young boys, and prior to joining the Ambulance Service, he completed a BSc (Hons) degree in Sport and Exercise Science.

Nicola moved to Hampshire from Somerset and Joined the Ambulance Service in 2000 as an Ambulance Technician. She qualified as a paramedic in 2004, later studying Emergency Care Practice at Portsmouth University and graduating in 2009. Since then she has worked in North Hampshire in various roles, including Clinical Mentor, Team Leader and more recently finished a secondment as Emergency Services Manager, thoroughly enjoying the experiences and challenges each role offered. She first flew with Helimed 56 as a paramedic in 2010 and since then has had a keen interest in joining the team. She has also been proud to represent the crew and attended charity events with the last being the Great South Run in 2015. In her spare time she enjoys being outdoors, walking and running with her two little dogs who are great training buddies and will be completing some more exciting challenges for the charity this year.

Nigel joined Dorset Ambulance Service in 2004 as a technician and qualified as a Paramedic in 2007. He then progressed to become a Specialist Practitioner in 2010 and worked within the Emergency and Urgent Care sector in the Southwest region whilst also lecturing in Paramedic Science at various universities in the country.

During his time with South Central Ambulance Service as Education Manager he was seconded to HIOWAA to assist the HEMS operations Desk and as a Medical Passenger. He enjoyed the experience with the team so much that he decided to join the team permanently and begin his HEMS Paramedic pathway in 2018.

Oliver joined the HIOWAA Critical Care Team in October 2016. He started his career with the London Ambulance Service in 2009 as a Student Paramedic, qualifying in 2012. He moved to the Peak District in 2013 to work in Manchester (and cycle/rock climb more!) and joined the Hazardous Area Response Team in 2014 – this included regular major incident training, managing patients in dangerous environments and operational ambulance and response car shifts. He has a Postgraduate Certificate in Prehospital Critical Care and despite not being willing to admit it, quite likes studying. Away from work he spends his time rock climbing, cycling, planning his next ski trip, watching rugby and avoiding housework. He is married with three pairs of skis and two bikes.

Pat has had a varied career working for the Ambulance service. He joined the service an Ambulance Technician in 1997 and started his training in Bromley. On completion of his basic training he was posted to Brixton Ambulance station, where he stayed for the next 3 years. Much of his experience was gained here. In 2001 he took up a position with London Ambulance Service and qualified as an IHCD state registered Paramedic in 2003. During this time he enjoyed two years of patrolling the west end of London responding to 999 calls. From 2006 – 2007 he served as a Paramedic for Yorkshire Ambulance station, in a small town called Kirkbymoorside in the Yorkshire Moors. He began working for HIOWAA in 2007. He is married and a father of two young boys.

Pete qualified as a paramedic in 2008 after a four-year programme with the University of Hertfordshire in glorious Hatfield.

Pete subsequently went onto work for South Western Ambulance Service (SWAS) in Bournemouth where he held the positions of paramedic and clinical mentor. Pete left SWAS to work in urgent care as a paramedic practitioner for two years at the Royal South Hants Hospital.

In 2015 Pete was accepted onto the critical care paramedic programme with South East Coast Ambulance Service where he completed an MSc in Advanced Paramedic Practice.

Before joining Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance in 2022, Pete had a short spell with the Hazardous Area Response Team in South Central Ambulance Service.

Pete is currently studying (“and thankfully nearly finished”) a further master’s in public health. He is looking forward to exploring how this newly gained knowledge can be employed upstream in the patient journey in programmes like injury prevention.

I began my training with South Central Ambulance Service in 2010 and since qualifying as a Paramedic and have thoroughly enjoyed the challenges of frontline work whilst being based at both Alton and Petersfield. In this time I have gained my degree and completed a three month secondment on HIOWAA’s dispatch desk which really help me understand the challenges the team can face.
When not at work, I enjoy scuba diving, cooking spicy food and running.

Thomas joined Hampshire Ambulance Service in 2007 after a career in photojournalism. He graduated as a Paramedic in 2011 and, after a couple of years as a Clinical Mentor and Team Leader in North Hampshire, he joined Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance as a trainee Specialist Paramedic in 2015. He finished his training in 2020 and now works a split role as Specialist Paramedic Lead and Aftercare Manager.

Tom left the British Army in 2008 and joined the London Ambulance Service (LAS) as a trainee Paramedic. He qualified in 2011 and spent the next two years working in west London before joining the LAS central operations department.

After two years in central operations, he joined Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance in 2015. He took 18 months away from full time employment with the us to train as a Surgical Advanced Clinical Practitioner in Birmingham but returned full time in 2021.

He is currently completing his dissertation to obtain a MSc in Advanced Clinical Practice with Southampton University. He also holds a PGcert in Advanced Clinical Practice from Warwick University and his non-medical prescribing qualification from Coventry University. He is also an instructor in both advanced life support and advanced paediatric life support with the Resuscitation Council and Advanced Life Support Group, respectively.

His spare time is spent with his three young children and taking on overly ambitious carpentry projects.

Dave joined the Army in 1984. He served first on ceremonial duties and then as a helicopter ground crewman/refueller. In 1988 he attended an Army Pilot Course.

As a pilot he served in various places from the Arctic to the Equator, working as an instructor on both helicopters and aeroplanes. He left the Army in 2006 and joined Bond Air Services.

Dave flew Air Ambulances and Police helicopters for Bond (now Babcock) all over the UK until he joined HIOWAA in October 2015. He is also qualified as a Captain, including in night HEMS.

Graeme joined the Royal Navy from university in 1992. For the next 28 years he flew various helicopter types in operations and exercises around the world before the inevitable desk jobs, in places such as the Ministry of Defence, prompted him to return to flying duties outside of the military.

He joined Babcock in 2020 as a touring pilot, flying both the EC135 and 145 and was thrilled to join the team at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance in 2023, whilst continuing to perform his duties as the flight safety officer for Babcock.

Marcus joined the RAF from university in 1991.  Having completed pilot training, he spent 9 years flying the Chinook helicopter on operations and exercises worldwide.  After leaving the RAF in 2005, he was a director of a commercial aviation company for 10 years, while continuing to fly as both a rotary and fixed-wing commercial pilot.  In 2015 Marcus joined Bond Air Services as a HEMS pilot, initially flying at various HEMS locations around the UK, before joining the HIOWAA team permanently in November 2015.

Phil has been flying helicopters for over 17 years. He began flying the EC135 as a HEMS touring pilot all over the UK in 2015, including at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance, qualifying for NVIS operations.

In October 2022 he was delighted to become a permanent base Captain at Thruxton, flying both day and night missions for the team.

Amy left college in 2011 after studying Biology, Chemistry, French and Maths. She worked as a Junior Secretary at a charity in Winchester, before starting work at a local zoo. Amy joined South Central Ambulance Service in 2014 working in the PALS department before qualifying as an Emergency Call Taker in June 2015. In January 2017 Amy joined the HEMS team as a HEMS Emergency Dispatch Assistant. She has a keen interest in emergency medicine and hopes to study medicine at university in the coming years.

Claire joined Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance from South Central Ambulance Service, where she worked as an emergency call taker for 12 years. She made the switch to HEMS in 2021 to further her skills and knowledge on the dispatch desk.

Claire has recently completed an access course into Paramedicine and is hoping to begin her journey out on the road as an emergency care assistant very soon, before eventually qualifying as a paramedic.

A mother to two boys, Seb and Freddie, Claire enjoys playing netball and working out with her personal trainer – who helps her keep up with her boys!

Ruth joined Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance as a Dispatch Assistant in December 2016.

She began her ambulance service career in 2011 with South East Coast Ambulance Service as a call taker before joining South Central Ambulance Service as a Resource Dispatcher.

Outside of work she loves photography, DIY and spending time with her husband and three-year-old son.

I started working for the charity in February 2018, however prior to this I served 28 years in the ambulance servicing and had the privilege of becoming one of the first HEMS Paramedics to fly on board Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance back in 2007 – a role I held until I moved back to land ambulances in 2015.

My current role is managing the HEMS Support Team. Between us we are responsible for looking after the day-to-day running of the Airbase and ensuring that it’s mission ready.

The job involves ordering, controlling and maintaining medical consumables and devices, arranging servicing and maintenance of our three response cars, ordering staff uniform and equipment.

I love my job with HIOWAA. I enjoy the challenges and not knowing what each day will bring. I work with an incredible and dedicated team of people who ensure we’re there when people need us the most.

Several years ago I took part in ‘Recycle the Island’, a 50-mile cycle ride around the Isle of Wight. Despite all the training it still didn’t prepare for how difficult the challenge would be, but I was very proud to complete it and raise money for HIOWAA. I have also abseiled down the Spinnaker Tower.

I started working for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance in April 2022 and work at the Airbase as part of the HEMS Support Team. My responsibilities include the checking and ordering of medical stores and crew uniform and ensuring the emergency response vehicles are maintained and serviced according to their schedules.

We hold regular meetings with the clinical team to ensure we are supporting them in the best way possible.

After 22 years in the RAF, I was looking for a role with a similar sense of teamwork and camaraderie, and I definitely found that here. I love that no two days are the same. Due to the nature of the environment we work in, there are often fast changing circumstances and situations to resolve, but I love a challenge and work best under pressure.

I am the Data Protection Officer and Data Manager and I joined HIOWAA in July 2020. 

I am responsible for our Database and the data we hold on our donors ensuring we meet the GDPR guidelines, as well as keeping our data relevant and up to date. I also manage the Data team who process all the donations and create meaningful statistics for the charity. 

I feel extremely proud to be part of this amazing charity and I am in awe of the service our Critical Care Team provide. 

My daughter first introduced me to Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance in 2018 when she abseiled down the Spinnaker Tower. As part of that fundraising, we did cake sales and sponsored spin sessions so she could hit her fundraising target. 

I would really love to do one of the walking challenges and I have already started training! 

I joined the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance Data team in 2021 having worked at other local and national charities over the last 10 years.

My role in the Data team allows me to enjoy a variety of spreadsheets on a daily basis, from providing data analysis and reports to processing regular giving.

I have previously completed the Great South Run and various 5k challenges for charity and would like to complete one of the HIOWAA walking challenges or Dash in the Dark – but that would mean getting my trainers out, and I much prefer a fancy pair of heels!

I began working at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance as an Administrator in 2014. I moved over the to the Data team as a Data Administrator in November 2020. My main role within this team is to import online donations from various platforms into our database. Working here makes me feel like I have an additional family.

For my 40th birthday I completed Gung Ho, a 5K inflatable fun run on Southampton Common, and raised over £500 for the charity. I think my charity challenge days are done – unless a chocolate eating challenge starts up.

Having worked as a School Administrator for 12 years, I joined Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance as an Administrator in October 2016.

Currently, as Office Manager, I manage the Business Support Team which is likely to be your first point of contact at the Charity Head Office. This might be by telephone 02380 743510, email enquiries@hiowaa.org or in person.

As a team, we process all Cash and Cheque donations, coordinate Volunteer drivers and Charity Pot collectors, manage the online merchandise store and ensure that the Charity office is a safe, well equipped and comfortable space for our colleagues and visitors. We all agree that working for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance is the best career move we ever made, and we are proud to be part of a worthwhile, lifesaving organisation. We are also regular and familiar faces at many fundraising events such as Dash in the Dark and, later this year, Karen and I plan to literally walk across hot coals for our cause at the Fire Walk!

After a 19-year career in Insurance, I joined Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance’s Business Support Team in May 2018.

Our team is likely to be your first point of contact at the Charity Head Office, we process all cash and cheque donations, coordinate volunteer drivers and charity pot collectors, manage the online merchandise store and ensure that the charity office is a safe, well equipped and comfortable space for our colleagues and visitors.

You may see me at fundraising events such as Dash in the Dark and, later this year, Kate and I plan to literally walk across hot coals for our cause at the Fire Walk!

Prior to joining Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance in June 2021, I worked in Customer Services and then as a Medical Administrator for eight years.

As part of the Business Support Team, I am likely to be one of your first contacts at the Charity Head Office. As a team, we also process all cash and cheque donations, coordinate volunteer drivers and charity pot collectors, manage the online merchandise store and ensure that the Charity office is a safe, well equipped and comfortable space for our colleagues and visitors.

You may see me supporting our fundraising events such as Dash in the Dark and, in April, the Business Support Team will be acting as my ground crew when I complete a 10,000ft Skydive!

I joined Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance as the Volunteering Team Administrator in 2018. After a short break, I recently returned to join the Business Support Team and I am likely to be one of your first contacts at the Charity Head Office.

As a team, we also process all cash and cheque donations, coordinate volunteer drivers and charity pot collectors, manage the online merchandise store and ensure that the Charity office is a safe, well equipped and comfortable space for our colleagues and visitors.

You may see me at our fundraising events such as Dash in the Dark and, in 2019, along with my colleagues Gemma and Kirsty, I completed an abseil down the Spinnaker Tower raising £1,600 for the charity. It was the most frightening thing I have ever done – but I would encourage everyone to have ago at facing their fears and carry out a challenge to raise funds for charity.

Before volunteering with my daughter Chloe, I was a patient of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance. After volunteering, I became employed by the charity.

I ensure equipment used by staff and volunteers is clean and in a good state of repair so they can carry out their roles and ensure that the professional image of the charity is reflected in everything we do.

I took part in Ride London on a tandem bicycle – it was the most challenging thing I have done but also very enjoyable.

You can read my patient story here.

I joined the charity in January 2019. As the Development Manager, I am responsible for a small team who look after supporter engagement and income generation for Legacy Giving, In Memory of giving, Trusts and Foundations and Major Gifts.

The best part of my day is spending time speaking with our amazing supporters and building meaningful relationships with them. It’s great to know the work that the team and I do is helping to save lives every day.

During the first lockdown I took part in the 2.6 challenge and cycled 26 miles. I love to swim, especially open water, so one day I’d love to try one of the Lake District swims, but I’m not sure I will ever be fit enough!

I have worked for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance since 2020. As Trusts and Foundations Officer, I submit applications to grant giving organisations that may be interested in funding specific projects, items of equipment, or general costs. I then ensure that our supporting organisations are kept well informed as to how their funding is being used to benefit our service and, ultimately, the patients we treat.

I am constantly inspired by the lifesaving work of our clinicians and feel very proud to be a part of an organisation that makes such a difference to its community. The way that the service has developed since its first mission in 2007 is thanks in no small part to the valuable contributions of grant-giving trusts and foundations. I am strongly motivated to continue working with old and new supporters to continue this development, keeping this charity at the cutting edge of pre-hospital emergency care.

I am really looking forward to taking part in Miles for Missions this year. Living in the New Forest, I couldn’t think of a more enjoyable way to raise money for my local Air Ambulance service than by heading out for a long ramble.

One challenge that I would love to complete is the Fire Walk. I’ll have to see how brave I’m feeling closer to the time.

I joined the charity in 2022 as a fundraiser in the Development team. My role includes supporting the charity’s in memory giving programme, applying to trusts and foundations for grants and thanking our amazing supporters for their donations.

My job is engaging and rewarding. I get to work with a fantastic team and I’m learning every day. I’m constantly amazed by the lifesaving difference our doctors, paramedics, pilots and dispatch assistants can make to our patients, and the generosity and dedication of our supporters.

I completed last year’s virtual Festive Dash with my son, who was raising money for the charity. He was so proud to receive his Festive Dash medal! I’d love to climb Snowdon and Ben Nevis, to add to Scafell Pike.

I joined the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance Marketing Team in 2018 having worked at other local charities and in media broadcasting before. I feel proud to work here and that my small part is making a difference to help keep us flying and saving lives.

I am responsible for our marketing team, and together, we share our story to supporters and non-supporters to generate awareness and increase engagement.

My time in the charity sector has meant that I have dabbled in a few fundraising events including a zip line challenge across St Mary’s Stadium in Southampton, a Fire Walk in Winchester, a couple of 5K fun runs, numerous bake sales, and probably my biggest achievement – abseiling the Spinnaker Tower for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance! I highly recommend this challenge.

I started working at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance in June 2019. I help to spread the word of our work by sharing stories from right across the charity – from crew milestones and medical achievements to the various outcomes of our patients.

So, if you see us on the television, hear us on the radio or read about us in the news, there’s a very good chance it was me who put us there!

I feel extremely privileged that every day I speak to patients and their families who have a profound connection to our cause. I regularly hear our patients say, “I never thought it would be me who needed an air ambulance.” This sentence sticks with me and helps me cherish precious moments and memories with my beautiful family.

I have always dreamt of standing on top of a fixed wing aircraft with the wind blowing in my ha… face, while taking on a wing walk for charity.

I joined Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance in April 2021. A big part of my role as a Marketing and Communication Officer is looking after the charity’s social media. This involves sharing information about the charity, patient stories and posting content from the crew. I also help with making marketing materials that our supporters use to fundraise to keep us flying and saving lives.

One of my favourite parts of my role is sharing every day the amazing service our crew delivers across the region. Reading the supportive comments we receive from supporters and patients makes me feel proud to be a part of the team and our work to raise awareness of our life-saving service.

I’m yet to tackle a fundraising challenge for the charity, but I’d love to do a walking challenge or a fire walk could be on the cards. Watch this space!

I joined the charity in June 2022 as part of the Comms and Marketing team. I have volunteered for several local charities which inspired me to join the team at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance.

As marketing coordinator, I oversee the delivery of our email marketing campaigns, including our monthly newsletter, where we share charity updates/ information including patient stories, crew news, mission figures and upcoming events. I feel very proud to be able to raise awareness of the incredible service our teams provide to people in our region.

I’d like to do our Dash in the Dark night-time run; I went to my first event last year and loved seeing so many runners turn out to support us.

I started working for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance in November 2022 as a Temporary Finance Officer. I joined the charity to help support the Accounts team during the busy audit and annual accounts preparation period.

I really enjoy working for the charity and contributing to its mission: to always bring exceptional critical care to people in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

My family, little dog and I recently completed Miles for Missions, where we enjoyed some lovely walks at the local beach and country parks.

I joined Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance as Supporter Engagement Manager in the summer of 2022. I head up the brilliant Supporter Engagement team, which is made up of three Supporter Engagement Officers, a Supporter Engagement Co-ordinator and an Events Fundraiser.

We work with individuals, community groups and businesses across our patch, to raise funds and awareness, to ensure the helicopter keeps flying and saving lives.

I’m a people person and really enjoy meeting new people, which probably explains why I like networking so much. There’s something very satisfying about identifying potential connections and opportunities and seeing them come to fruition. I’m also fiercely competitive and love a good challenge!

I’ve managed to get through 10 + years so far in the charity sector, without having to throw myself out of a perfectly good plane or climb huge mountains. I did register for the London Marathon once and have never been so relieved as when the magazine dropped through the door to say I’d been unsuccessful, so I think my time might be coming… sooner rather than later. But no ideas what I’d like to do, any (sensible) suggestions?

I joined Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance in June 2022 as one of the Supporter Engagement Officers. My role involves supporting and developing our amazing community and corporate fundraisers.

I love working with such an amazing variety of people and in different places, no day is ever the same.

I am yet to take on my first fundraising challenge for the charity, but in the past I have completed 10km runs, mascot races, an overseas trek and a skydive – and I’m very keen to take on a swimming challenge in the future.

I was lucky enough to join Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance in 2021. I work closely with businesses and community groups to make saving lives rewarding and fun.

As a Supporter Engagement Officer, no day is ever the same. The best part is welcoming supporters to the Airbase, where their impact comes to life, and catching up with former patients and their families.

After taking on a Fire Walk and zip challenge, the next item on my bucket list is to skydive for the charity. Wish me luck!

I joined the charity in 2018 as part of the Fundraising team. I organise our in-house bespoke events such as our successful Dash in the Dark series and support participants who are taking part in challenges such as the London Marathon, skydives, cycling events and treks. I am also very lucky to work closely with our amazing volunteers at our events as well.

I love hearing our patients’ stories. You never know when you may need to use our service. Our crew are heroes in my eyes, and fundraising to enable the team to carry on saving lives is a pleasure

To mark the charity’s 15th birthday, I took part in our charity skydive – which just so happened to be my birthday, too! And in December 2022, my boys, my parents and I ran 3k for our virtual Festive Dash.

Ever since I was a young girl and watched a programmes on K2, I have wanted to go there. Everest Base Camp Trek is as close as I will ever get.

As a Supporter Engagement Coordinator, I work alongside the Engagement team as well as part of the Events team. My role includes supporting community fundraising, organising charity talks to different groups in the region, stewarding our challenge participants whilst they are fundraising for us and supporting our Events Fundraiser when organising events for the charity. What I love most about this job is being able to engage with our fabulous supporters and working with some brilliant volunteers as part of an amazing charity every day.

I was inspired to work for an air ambulance charity after completing some work experience with Devon Air Ambulance before starting my Events Management degree in Southampton. After completely my degree I was lucky enough to begin working with HIOWAA in May 2022.

As quite a keen runner, I would love to be able to complete a marathon in aid of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance one day! Our Dash in the Dark events have got to be one of my favourites, I would love to run it, but I have very much enjoyed being able to help with the organisation of it and watching all our amazing runners take part.

I have worked at the charity since 2014 and have had a few different roles – but all of them have involved the volunteers. I recruit, train, manage and support our amazing team of volunteers.

I love working with this incredible team of dedicated individuals who donate their time and talent to their Air Ambulance. Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance wouldn’t be where it is today without the support of each volunteer – they really do Keep Critical Care in the Air.

Unsurprisingly in the years I have been here I have been “persuaded” to do a fair few crazy things to raise funds for the charity – namely a tandem skydive in 2013 and an abseil down the Spinnaker Tower in 2019. I think I am safe for a few more years but I am sure I will be persuaded by something adrenaline fuelled again.

It has been a real honour working with the charity for so long, watching it develop and grow is just awe-inspiring. I look forward to supporting many more changes in the future.