For the October meeting we had Penny Weir from the Great Western Air Ambulance service give a very informative and interesting talk. She explained a little of the history, including how the civilian air ambulances were developed from military evacuation helicopters. She also gave a breakdown of the running costs (currently around £1.2 million pounds a year) and how they raise the cash, it was interesting to hear that they receive no government help and are not eligible for National Lottery grants either.
![Great Western Air Ambulance](http://glevumvg.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/news_34_1857268405.jpg)
We also heard about the Great Western Air Ambulance set up, including the fact that it is only one of four air ambulance services in the country that carries a doctor on every call out, as well as a highly qualified Paramedic, the doctors giving their time free of charge. The talk was very well received and I think all present were amazed at some of the facts given. A donation tin was present (organised by the Group Chairperson) which raised £32.00 for the air ambulance, so well done to all those who contributed.
Visit their website for more info on the Great Western Air Ambulance
Next month we have a talk on The History of Gloucestershire given by Steve Blake.