The event attracted walkers, families, volunteers and supporters of all ages, who enjoyed a day of community spirit, entertainment and fundraising in aid of their local air ambulance charity. Participants took on either a three-mile or 7.5-mile Heli Hike route through the Surrey countryside before celebrating their achievement at the Family Fun Day.

Adding to the excitement of the day was Surrey Olympian Greg Cackett, who led the warm-up for Heli Hike participants and spent time meeting supporters and learning more about KSS's lifesaving service.

Greg Cackett said: "It was fantastic to see so many people come together to support KSS. The atmosphere throughout the day was incredible and it was inspiring to meet people who are passionate about helping ensure this vital service can continue saving lives across our communities. It was a privilege to be involved."

Visitors to the Family Fun Day enjoyed a packed programme of activities including opportunities to meet KSS crew members, see the helicopter up close, watch emergency services demonstrations, enjoy live music and family entertainment, with children able to take part in a Mini Medic Mission.

Katie Austin, Events Manager at KSS, said: "We would like to thank everyone who joined us for the Heli Hike and Family Fun Day. The support shown by our local community was incredible, and every participant, volunteer, and supporter played a part in helping us raise vital funds for our lifesaving service.

"We were delighted to welcome Greg Cackett to the event and are grateful for the enthusiasm and encouragement he brought to the day. Huge thanks to everyone at Old Reigatians for making us so welcome at our new location. Events like this are not only important fundraising opportunities, but also a chance for us to connect with the communities we serve and share more about the work our crews do every day."

Funds raised from the event will help KSS continue providing advanced pre-hospital emergency care to critically ill and injured patients across Kent, Surrey and Sussex. The charity responds to more than 3,100 incidents a year and must raise £57k a day to keep this lifesaving service operational.

Thanks to the success of events like the Heli Hike and Family Fun Day, KSS can continue responding to over nine emergency calls every day, bringing expert, pre-hospital emergency care to patients when every second counts.

For more information about KSS, its work and how to support the charity, visit aakss.org.uk.