Paris Smith names Hampshire and IoW Air Ambulance its charity of the year

Paris Smith has selected Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance as its charity of the year for 2024/2025, kicking off the partnership with a ‘Dash in the Dark’ this September.

The Southampton-headquartered law firm has been confirmed as headline sponsor for the annual event, a 5k fun run on Southampton Common which over the years has raised more than £100,000 for the air ambulance.

Charlotte Farrell and Tabytha Cunningham, co-chairs of the charity committee at Paris Smith, said: “By supporting this vital emergency service as our charity of the year, Paris Smith aims not only to contribute financially and make a meaningful impact on the lives of those in need of emergency critical care, but also to raise awareness about the crucial importance of the air ambulance service within our local community.

“The Dash in the Dark event is a unique and fun way to highlight the work the service does and raise vital funds to keep the air ambulance flying and saving lives.”

Keith Wilson, director of income and engagement at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance, added: “We rely entirely on the generosity and kindness from people in our community to help us save lives 365 days a year.

“We’re hugely grateful to Paris Smith for choosing to support Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance in our mission to save lives across the region.

“Their support will ensure we can be there for the most critically ill and seriously injured patients who need our help.”

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance has responded to 18,000 missions since its first flight in 2007 and 901 missions since the start of the year – a year-on-year increase of more than 20 per cent.

On average, each mission costs the charity £3,500, and their daily running costs are £17,750.

For more information about the Dash in the Dark event or to learn how you can support the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance, visit hiowaa.org/event/dash-in-the-dark-southampton