INSPIRED by his trip to the Essex and Herts Air Ambulance base, a nine-year-old boy is setting out on a long walk to raise funds for the charity.
James Theobald, 9, from Colchester will be hiking from the Colchester Hospital to the Essex and Herts Air Ambulance home base in Earls Colne on Thursday.
He had a target to raise £250 to go towards a new air ambulance and has so far smashed his target by raising more than £680.
The air ambulance trust has described James as “showcasing determination beyond his years” as he has dedicated time to training and collecting funds.
Recently visiting the Essex and Herts Air Ambulance base at Earls Colne, James witnessed the helicopter's return from a flight.
He learned about the considerable cost of these life-saving missions and the organisation's plan to acquire a new helicopter next year and said: "They are expensive”.
He plans to set out at 7.30am and aims to finish the walk in Earls Colne by 3pm.
He is said to be nervous and excited ahead of the big day following his hard work fundraising for the event.
At the finish line, the Essex and Herts Air Ambulance has promised not only a celebratory finish but also a perfect photo moment against the backdrop of the Christmas season.
The trust expresses deep gratitude for the community's support and encourages further engagement.
The Essex and Herts Air Ambulance Trust is an award-winning charity that provides Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) for the critically ill and injured of Essex, Hertfordshire, and the surrounding areas.
The service is provided free of charge and is said to cost in excess of £750,000 every month to keep it operational.
Jane Gurney, chief executive officer at Essex and Herts Air Ambulance said: "I'm overjoyed by the incredible efforts of 9-year-old James Theobald in his sponsored walk for Essex & Herts Air Ambulance.
“Surpassing his £250 goal with an impressive £652 so far, James embodies the true spirit of giving."
For more information, or to donate, go to the Just Giving page.
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