Injured walker is new face of Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance fundraising campaign

Helen Keats, 61, was enjoying being outside on a beautiful day at the top of Mam Tor hill near Castleton in the Peak District when she slipped on muddy ground.

Helen said: “I heard something snap and when I looked down my right foot was sticking out at an odd angle. It was quite apparent that I wasn’t getting up and moving any time soon.”

Helen’s daughter called 999 and used the what3words app on her phone to share their location.

Due to the remote scene of the accident DLRAA and Edale Mountain Rescue Team were deployed to attend the incident.

The air ambulance landed on the hill above them and shortly afterwards the Mountain Rescue Team arrived at the scene.

Helen had a fracture/dislocation to her ankle and, with the help of the Mountain Rescue Team members, she was carried on a stretcher to the helicopter and loaded on board for the short flight to Northern General Hospital in Sheffield.

Helen said: “We think the air ambulance should be paid for and not rely on donations to operate. It truly is a lifesaver and deserves to get all the money it needs, even in the current pandemic. It’s an absolute necessity.”

For more information on the appeal and how you can support, visit www.theairambulanceservice.org.uk/your-local-air-ambulance/local-appeal-campaign.

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