A crucial reminder of the importance of emergency services during the festive season: The Lincs and Notts Air Ambulance (LNAA) witnessed a surge in call-outs over Christmas, with 55 missions between December 23rd and January 1st, 2026, compared to 35 missions during the same period in 2024.
But here's where it gets controversial... The charity's CEO, Karen Jobling, highlights the tireless work of the crew, responding to emergencies while many were celebrating at home. With 29 call-outs for medical emergencies and 9 for road traffic collisions, the crew's busiest day was December 29th, with 13 call-outs.
Jobling emphasizes, "This increase in missions underscores the essential nature of our service, and we are deeply grateful for the incredible support from our community." In the past 12 months, the charity has flown 1,608 missions and treated over a thousand patients.
Looking ahead, the charity is set to receive new critical care cars in February 2026 and is focusing on fundraising for a second helicopter landing in 2027. However, the charity's operations are entirely funded by donations, which can be a challenging task.
And this is the part most people miss... The LNAA's work is a testament to the dedication and resilience of emergency services, often operating behind the scenes. Their presence and rapid response can mean the difference between life and death. So, as we reflect on the festive season, let's also remember to appreciate and support the vital work of our emergency services.
What are your thoughts on the importance of emergency services during the holidays? Do you think enough is being done to support and fund these life-saving operations? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!