The KSS Heli Hike in Surrey and Family Fun Day promise something for all ages, from scenic countryside walking routes to hands-on activities and the chance to meet the charity’s lifesaving crews and see the air ambulance helicopter up close*.
Heli Hike in Surrey offers participants the chance to support their local air ambulance by taking on either a 3-mile or 7.5-mile route through the stunning Surrey countryside.
The Heli Hike will begin with a lively warm-up led by Olympian Greg Cackett. The bobsledder and former sprinter has competed at three Olympic Games and was part of the team that won Britain’s first four-man World Championship medal in 84 years – a silver in 2023.
Speaking ahead of the day Greg Cackett said: “I’m really looking forward to being part of the Heli Hike this July. It’s an amazing way to bring people together, get moving and support a truly lifesaving cause. I’m excited to help kick-start the day with the warm-up and to see so many people taking part and making a difference.
“The KSS crews provide an incredible, lifesaving service, and I am delighted to be able to support such an important local charity and help raise awareness of their work.”
The Heli Hike is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for all abilities, and walkers are encouraged to sign up with friends, family and even their dogs to raise vital funds to help KSS continue to provide expert pre-hospital emergency care across Kent, Surrey and Sussex.
Every step taken supports the charity’s work in delivering lifesaving interventions at the scene of an incident, from advanced trauma care to blood transfusions, bringing the emergency room directly to patients when every second counts.
Participants can also look forward to a celebratory finish, with medals, refreshments and access to the Family Fun Day.
A community celebration
Running alongside the Heli Hike, the Family Fun Day which runs from 11am to 4pm has an exciting programme of entertainment designed to engage and inspire visitors of all ages with activities, refreshments and a welcoming atmosphere making it an ideal day out for the whole family.
Highlights of the day include:
- The chance to meet KSS crew members and see the helicopter up close (subject to operational availability)
- Live demonstrations, including CPR and emergency services response demonstrations involving Surrey Fire and Rescue Service, SECAmb and Sussex Police
- A performance by the Rock Choir
- Live music, street food and local stalls supporting the community
- A dedicated children’s area featuring rides, face painting and interactive activities
- The popular Mini Medic Mission, helping young visitors learn vital lifesaving skills in a fun environment
KSS Events Manager Katie Austin said: “We are really looking forward to our Surrey Heli Hike and Family Fun Day and seeing our community come together to support of the lifesaving care we provide every day. Whether you’re taking on the challenge of the Heli Hike or joining us for the celebrations at the Family Fun Day, there really is something for everyone.
“We’re delighted that Olympian Greg Cackett is joining us for this special day and we’re looking forward to his warm-up session!”
Supporting lifesaving care
Every pound raised through events like the Heli Hike and Family Fun Day helps KSS continue delivering advanced pre-hospital emergency care – bringing the emergency department to the scene of serious incidents such as road traffic collisions, cardiac arrests and medical emergencies.
KSS crews respond to thousands of incidents every year, delivering specialist treatment typically found only in a hospital setting. The charity needs to raise £57k a day to keep fund the service running, making events like this invaluable.
It’s easy to sign up to take part in the Heli Hike or attend the Family Fun Day via the KSS website.
