Air Ambulance Charity, Kent Surrey Sussex (KSS) is inviting supporters to lace up their shoes and walk to keep their local air ambulance flying. Registration is now open for its Heli Hike sponsored walks.. 

Walkers of all ages are encouraged to take part and enjoy the choice of a three or 7.5 mile walk through the breathtaking Surrey Hills, with every step helping to raise funds for the life-saving work of KSS. Everyone is welcome, including dogs! 

Everyone who takes part in Heli Hike will receive a special KSS Heli Hike t-shirt along with a medal. 

Last year was the busiest ever for KSS, with the charity responding to over 3,200 incidents across Kent, Surrey and Sussex. 

It costs over £45,000 a day to run the charity’s life-saving service for the 4.8 million people who live in Kent, Surrey and Sussex. As 87 per cent of the charity’s income is funded by its supporters, now more than ever, KSS needs the support of its communities.

Lauren Simmons, Head of Events at KSS, said: “Following in the successful footsteps of last year’s event, we’re excited that registration for Heli Hike 2023 is open! It’s going to be a fantastic event, with so much fun in store for individuals, families, and groups of walkers, all striding out across the Surrey countryside to help keep us flying and saving lives.  

“Thanks to our supporters, we were able to provide our life-saving care to over 400 people in Surrey who needed us last year. One day, it could be someone you know who needs us. By taking part in Heli Hike in Surrey, you can help to ensure we can be there when the worst happens.” 

Chris, whose husband Giles was cared for by KSS, is urging people to sign up and take part in a Heli Hike. She said: “My husband’s life was saved by KSS after he had an aortic dissection. This meant the inner layer of Giles’ main artery had torn, and he was in a life-threatening condition, in need of urgent, life-saving care. The doctor and paramedic team from KSS were absolutely amazing.  

“I never thought my family would go through a medical emergency like this and need the life-saving service of KSS. But without them, Giles may not be with us now.”  

The charity is holding several hikes so everyone can take part: 

For further information, and to register, click here.