Meet our team

Cpt Steve Waudby is our Director of Aviation. Steve has worked for the Charity periodically since 2012 and took a permanent position within the charity in 2018, working his way up to Director of Aviation in 2019.

In his role as the Director of Aviation, he is responsible for the safety of our aircraft and crew, staff development and training along with aircraft maintenance.

“What I love about working for the YAA is the teamwork more than anything.  We have a wonderful bunch of paramedics and doctors who are second to none.  I like working in a team and the friendly banter that comes with it.  We see a lot of dreadful accidents and incidents each week, so it’s important to keep spirits lifted as much as possible and the team are fantastic at supporting each other”, said Steve.

In his spare time Steve enjoys photography and dancing.

Interesting fact: When Steve was 12 years old, he was given a Royal Award for Gallantry for saving a four-year-old who had fallen into a flooded quarry

Owen is Chief Pilot for the YAA and he joined our charity in 2019, having previously worked for another air ambulance charity.

When asked what he loves about his job, Owen said: “The extended night HEMS hours and the family environment.”

In his spare time he enjoys running and coaching junior Rugby.

Interesting fact:  This is not the first time Owen has worked for the YAA! He was initially employed to fly out of Topcliffe in 2012.

Garry Brasher is the YAA Pilot Training Captain and he joined the charity in 2013. Prior to working for the YAA, he worked for Specialist Air Services (SAS).

When asked what he enjoys about working for the YAA, Garry, said: “Working as a team, and helping the public of Yorkshire.”

Interesting fact: Garry spent 22 years in the Army finishing in the Army Air Corps, flying Lynx helicopters, after 12 years as an infantry soldier.

Lee Holmes is one of our Pilots and joined the charity in 2018. He previously worked for the National Police Air Service.

“I enjoy being part of a small team that makes a real difference to people’s lives”, said Lee.

In his spare time Lee enjoys hill walking and swimming.

Interesting fact: Lee once followed Indiana Jones’ footsteps and went to Petra in Jordan.

Colin Hawkesworth is one of our YAA pilots and he joined the charity in 2019. Prior to working for the YAA, he worked for the National Police Air Service.

When asked what he loves about his job, Colin said: “The people I meet and the lovely countryside of North Yorkshire.”

In his spare time Colin enjoys walking, cycling, model making, cooking and watching Youtube videos.

Interesting fact: Colin is an ex-army helicopter display pilot.

Dr Andy Pountney joined the Yorkshire Air Ambulance in 2004 and is the YCCT (Yorkshire Critical Care Team) Clinical Lead. When he’s not working at the YAA, Andy is an Emergency Medicine Consultant at Pinderfields Hospital, Wakefield.

Jez Pinnell is our YAA Medical Advisor and one of our Critical Care Consultants. He joined the YAA in 2005 when he was an anaesthetic register at Leeds General Infirmary.

When asked what he enjoys the most about his role, Jez said: ““The amazing team of colleagues that I work with and being able to make a difference to our patients.”

In his spare time Jez enjoys running, skiing and cycling.

Interesting fact: Jez once had a swap on Noel Edmonds Swap Shop.

Dr Tim Moll is one of our consultants and the joined the charity in 2009. When he’s not working for the YAA he is a consultant anaesthetist in a Major Trauma Centre.

“As a Yorkshireman born and bred, I enjoy flying around the region in our of state-of-the-art helicopters, bringing help to our fellow Yorkshire folk”, said Tim.

In his spare time, Tim enjoys working as a doctor at racetracks and football matches. He also loves cars, motorbikes and science fiction.

Interesting fact: Tim’s grandfather, father and uncle were doctors in Yorkshire, his wife currently is a doctor in Yorkshire…and his daughter wants to be a vet!

Rob Anderson is one of our Consultants and he joined the charity in 2016. Rob has worked at many A&E departments in Hospitals across the North of England and whilst working for the British Army, he completed a tour in Afghanistan.

“I enjoy making a real positive difference to the people of Yorkshire’s lives in their time of need”, said Rob.

In his spare time, Rob enjoys watching cricket and socialising.

Interesting fact: Rob is the 4^th generation of doctor in his family with the same name. There is a nursing home and street named after his grandfather in Stainforth near Doncaster.

Dr Neil Sambridge is one of our consultants and when he’s not flying with the Yorkshire Air Ambulance, he is a Consultant Anaesthetist at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust.

Chris Srinivasan joined the YAA in 2014 and he’s one of our consultants. When he’s not on board our aircraft, he works at Hull Royal Infirmary as an Emergency Care Consultant.

“I enjoy working in a close knit team and the challenge of attending a variety of incidents across Yorkshire. You never quite know what you’re going to”, said Chris.

In his spare time, Chris enjoys cycling with the East Hull Cycle Squad and tinkering with his old Landrover from the 1940s.

Interesting fact: In 2018, Chris cycled over 300 miles through Belgium and the Netherlands for Pedal 4 Pounds 10 raising money for the YAA.

Dr Brian White is one of our YAA consultants and he joined the charity in 2016. When he’s not on the air ambulance, he is a Consultant Anaesthetist at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust.

Dr Steve Rowe started working for the charity in 2009 and he’s one of our HEMS Consultants. Steve spends one day a fortnight on the air ambulance as part of his NHS duties and the rest of the time he is a Consultant Anaesthetist at Northern General Hospital in Sheffield.

“I love the diversity and challenge of the incidents we attend, helping people who are having their worst day, and working with a great team of pilots, paramedics and charity staff”, said Steve.

When he’s not flying about the skies of Yorkshire or working at the Northern General Hospital, he enjoys spending time with his family enjoying the Peak District hills. He is a keen walker and climber, so having the Pennine moors on the doorstep is ideal!

Interesting fact: Steve spends some of his free time volunteering with Edale Mountain Rescue Team, so at times he has to call upon the Yorkshire Air Ambulance to assist causalities in the hills.

Gav McCune is one of our HEMS Paramedics and he joined the charity in April 2019. Prior to working for the YAA, he was a Clinical Supervisor at Leeds Ambulance Station.

When asked what he enjoys about his job, Gav said: “Working in a small critical care team and flying around the skies of Yorkshire.”

In his spare time Gav enjoys football, skiing and walking and socialising with friends and family.

Interesting fact: In 2002/2003 he played football in the FA Cup for Tadcaster Albion!

Michael joined the Yorkshire Ambulance Service in 2009 after seven years in the Army. Originally based in Harrogate as a Paramedic, Michael moved to Leeds as Clinical Supervisor prior to accepting his new role at the Charity.

“Being based in rural North Yorkshire we often encountered Yorkshire Air Ambulance on jobs and working for them has always been something that I wanted to do. I am looking forward to getting out there and putting all the training into practice, whilst learning from all the YAA Doctors, Paramedics and Pilots.”, says Michael.

Georgina Godfrey is from Sheffield. When Georgina left sixth form, she originally started her working life as a dental nurse, following in her family’s footsteps. However, a year later she decided to pursue a medical career, an ambition which derived from a serious fall Georgina had when she was younger and after being inspired by the medical team that helped her.

Georgina went to Sheffield Hallam University and qualified as a Paramedic when she was only 21 and joined the Yorkshire Ambulance Service in 2012, progressing to a Clinical Supervisor in 2017.

Speaking of the Yorkshire Air Ambulance, Georgina said: “I’ve worked alongside the Yorkshire Air Ambulance many times in my role at the Yorkshire Ambulance Service and I’ve always been impressed by their teamwork and the care they give their patients.”

Gemma joined the Yorkshire Ambulance Service in 2002 as a Technician and worked at Menston Ambulance Station as an AEMT (Advanced Emergency Medical Technician) until she was offered a position at HART, Yorkshire’s Hazardous Area Response Team. It was there she completed her Paramedic training and remained on the unit for eight years before joining the YAA.

Gemma said: “I really wanted the opportunity to experience life as a HEMS paramedic. I spent eight years working across Yorkshire providing a HART response so now is a really exciting opportunity to provide a similar response but arriving to the emergency in a completely different way and providing my patients with a wider variety of clinical skills. I am really looking forward to working alongside the Doctors, providing a critical care response to the patients in the greatest need and hopefully learning a huge amount from the Doctors’ experience in pre-hospital care.”

Steven Dawber from Brough has been a qualified Paramedic for the last 12 years. He started his medical career in 2002 working on patient transport, then progressing to A&E and in 2008 he sat his paramedic exams. His career has been predominantly spent working in Hull where he also became a Clinical Supervisor in 2013 and was seconded to Clinical Development Manager before joining the YAA in 2020.

Speaking of why he joined the Yorkshire Air Ambulance, Steven said: “I had reached a point in my career where I wanted to challenge myself again and go to jobs where I could learn more skills and push myself. Working at the YAA offers a different method of transport, different skills and medication and most importantly, you can make a difference to someone’s life and I saw this on my first week of work here, where a journey by land would have taken 40 minutes, but it took just 4 minutes by air.”

Paul joined the ambulance service in 1999 as an Ambulance Technician (now called EMT). In 2003 he became a qualified Paramedic, being promoted in 2007 to a Clinical Team Educator. He was then promoted to the role of Clinical Team Leader in 2010. The two positions then merged in 2021 to become a Clinical Supervisor. He was asked to undertake a secondment as a Locality Manager in Doncaster before returning as a Clinical Supervisor prior to joining the YAA. In 2015 he was successful in his assessments and obtained a place on the unit, becoming a permanent member of staff in 2017.

Paul decided to join the ambulance service after spending several years volunteering for the British Red Cross, becoming a Duty Manager at the young age of 18.

“I can honestly say this is the best job I’ve ever had within the ambulance service. The ability to look after the most critically ill and injured patients is what Paramedics want to do, however many don’t get the chance to work with such a dedicated and professional team such as YAA. The close relationship between the crews and charity staff speaks volumes through how our HEMS operations have developed over the years.”

In his spare time, Paul enjoys family movie nights, camping, walking, doing martial arts and keeping fit with his young daughter, Eleanor. He is also known to attempt to play the guitar too.

Interesting facts:

• Paul has been training in martial arts since I was 7 years old, grading in over seven different styles and obtaining a black belt in Tae Kwon Do. He is currently studying Kung Fu.
• Paul also lives in a haunted house.

Andy Crow is one of our HEMS Paramedics and he joined the charity in April 2019.

“I like being able to help the most critically injured and ill patients all across the county and being able to fly in a helicopter”, said Andrew.

When he’s not working, Andrew enjoys spending time with his little boy and running, keeping fit and crosswords. Andrew also plays guitar and piano.

Interesting fact: Andrew has had classical guitar lessons for the last 10 years and also played as part of a quartet with James, one of the charity Trustees.

Sammy Wills is one of our HEMS Paramedics and Clinical Supervisors and her first flying day at the YAA was 24^th September 2002!

“I love being part of the team that can provide a fantastic pre-hospital service, in a timely speedy way, for all the people in Yorkshire and those blessed to visit”, said Sammy.

Sammy is a serving member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In her spare time she enjoys riding her mountain bike, running on the moors and spending time with her family – especially her 7 nieces and nephews.

Interesting fact: Sammy is a Winston Churchill Fellow. She loves to travel and had the opportunity to fly around the world visiting other Air Ambulance units.

James Allen joined the charity in 2019 and he is one of our HEMS Paramedics. Prior to joining the YAA, James worked for the Yorkshire Hazardous Area Response Team.

“Working for the YAA is interesting and challenging, many of the incidents we attend are unusual or ‘out of the ordinary’ compared to what we would consider to be normal day-to-day ambulance work”, said James.

In his spare time, James enjoys skiing.

Matty McCabe is one of our HEMS Paramedics and he joined the charity in April 2019. He previously worked at Yorkshire Ambulance Service as Paramedic at Wakefield and Clinical Supervisor in Huddersfield and Wakefield and prior to joining YAS, he worked in West Midlands as a Paramedic.

“I love being able to meet lots of different people from all over Yorkshire and beyond, whilst out on emergency calls. This could be up a hill, on a peak, on the beach, at the side of the road or in their own home! The opportunity to work with some very experienced Doctors, Paramedics and pilots is also an experience I do not take for granted and i am trying to learn as much as i can during my secondment here. Flying over Yorkshire on a sunny day is also pretty spectacular – we do live in a fantastic place after all”, said Matty.

In his spare time Matty enjoys watching sports – Rugby, Cricket, Football, Boxing, Running, Hiking and going to Headingley Stadium to watch the Rhinos.

Rachel Smith is one of our HEMS Paramedics and she joined the charity in April 2019.

Rachel has worked for the ambulance service for 12 years, been a qualified Paramedic for 10 years and most recently worked as a Clinical Supervisor at Wakefield

When asked what she enjoys about her job the most, Rachel said: “Having the opportunity to make a real difference to the patients that we treat. Not only with the skills that we have, but also the speed at which we can get to them, especially those in hard to reach areas.”

In her spare time, Rachel enjoys spending time with her family and walking with her two dogs. She also loves travelling, yoga and playing netball.

Tyrone joined our charity in 2017 and he is one of our HEMS Paramedics. Prior to joining the YAA, he worked in Leeds as a Clinical Supervisor.

“For me I get the most satisfaction out of making a difference in the early stages of a patient’s recovery. Also, grateful for the extended skills and interventions where this allows”, said Tyrone.

When he’s not working, Tyrone enjoys camping, skiing, snowboarding, walking and spending time with his two children.

Interesting fact: In 2014 Tyrone was involved in a road traffic collision at work and was airlifted to Leeds General Infirmary by the YAA (Al & Tony were the heroes of the hour). He had sustained a broken back and was out of operational action for over a year. Soon after (2017), he applied for the role of Aircrew Paramedic and he was successful, giving him an appreciation from both a professional and patient point of view.

Lisa Dempster joined the YAA in 2015 and she is one of our HEMS Paramedics.

When asked what she enjoys the most about her role, Lisa said: “Delivering critical care to time critical patients. Hopefully making a difference to patient outcomes.”

In her spare time, Lisa enjoys family time, gardening and spending time with her puppy.

Kit is one of our Paramedics and joined our charity in 2014. When he’s not working for the charity, he works on a response car in Leeds.

When asked what he enjoys the most about being a HEMS Paramedic, Kit said: “The variety of cases and the places we visit and the ability to make a real difference in people’s lives.”

In his spare time, Kit enjoys long walks with his family, cooking and baking.

Interesting fact: Kit absolutely loves cheese!

Matt Syrat is our Clinical Operations Manager and he joined our charity in 2011.

When asked what he enjoys the most about his role Matt, said: “The vast variation in the workload ranging from the beautiful to the outrageous. No other job delivers such a mixture of emotions whilst maintaining the delivery of such high acuity care and yet allows me to fly around such a beautiful county doing the job I love.”

In his spare time, Matt enjoys golf, football, walking, photography, motocross, history and spending time with his family.

Golf, Football, Walking, Photography, Motocross, History, spending time with my family

Interesting fact: In 2012 Matt achieved a Guinness World Record for playing 43 Hours, continuous, 5-a-side football

Andrew Armitage is one of our HEMS Paramedics and he joined the charity in 2011, following a career in the Armed Forces.

“It’s a fantastic job flying around Yorkshire helping people”, said Andy.

In his spare time, Andrew enjoys going to the gym and mountain biking.

Interesting fact: Andrew once marched 40 miles in Dartmoor National Park carrying 40 pound plus food and water in 12 hours.

Al Day is one of our Paramedics and he joined our charity in 2009.

“Working for the YAA is the best job in the Ambulance Service. You are part of a fantastic team that regularly makes a difference to people’s lives in the most dramatic county in England”, said Al.

In his spare time, Al enjoys walking, running and mountain biking.

Interesting fact: Al has been a Mountain Rescue Volunteer for almost 30 years, including 5 years as a team leader for his local team; Calder Valley Search & Rescue Team. He attends around 50 emergency call outs per year.

Abby is our Director of Marketing & Communications. She is responsible for the day to day running of the Marketing & Communications department at the Charity.

Anything which has the YAA brand on it falls under Abby’s responsibility along with the website, social media channels, internal and external communications, PR, Media, all our literature, merchandise and events that we organise, amongst other duties.

She is supported in the Marketing Department by a great team – Leanne Seward (Creative Marketing & Brand Manager), Angela Brearley (Digital Marketing Manager) Jessica McDonnell (PR & Communications Manager) and Rebecca Martin (Marketing Assistant)

Abby joined the Yorkshire Air Ambulance in December 2008 after previously working in advertising agencies and as a Marketing Manager for a Construction company. Not a native of Yorkshire, Abby now regards herself as an honorary Yorkshire lass after marrying a Yorkshire lad. When not at work, Abby is kept busy with her son and baby daughter.

Interesting fact: Abby once featured in the Sunday Mail after she won an award at High School.  The article was about a controversial scene in the Titanic movie when William Murdoch, the ships First Officer was portrayed as taking his own life, when actually this wasn’t the case.  Both Abby and William Murdoch are from Dalbeattie in Scotland and the town was in uproar when the movie was released, which also happened to be the same year Abby won the William Murdoch Memorial medal!  The controversy was picked up by national media, resulting in an article in the Sunday Mail by Dorothy Grace-Elder which featured Abby!

Leanne Seward joined the charity in 2019 as our Marketing Manager, bringing with her a wealth of charity experience. Leanne is responsible for all our branding and marketing material, working alongside Abby, Jessica and Becky.

“I love the fact that no two days are the same in this charity and knowing that I am making a small contribution in helping save lives across the region. It’s an honour to say I work for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance”, said Leanne.

In her spare time Leanne enjoys running, keeping fit, going on holiday, socialising with her friends and spending time with her girls.

Interesting fact:

When Leanne was younger, she used to work at a carrot farm as a carrot picker.

Jessica McDonnell is our PR and Communications Officer and joined the charity in 2018. She manages all of our PR and social media as well as coordinates our patient visits and patient enquiries.

In her spare time Jessica enjoys walking her dogs, travelling around the UK and playing piano.

Interesting fact: Jessica once met the iconic supermodel Twiggy at an event!

Rebecca Martin is our Marketing Assistant and joined the charity in 2019. Rebecca works closely with the marketing team assisting them with their daily activities and she is responsible for organising our charity merchandise.

“I love the friendly atmosphere and working for an important charity that saves lives”, said Rebecca.

Rebecca is a mum to two football obsessed boys and when she’s not watching them train, she enjoys taking her Cockapoo Winnie for walks.

Interesting fact: Rebecca was once close friends with world renowned magician Dynamo!

Kerry Dwyer is our Director of Fundraising for West and South Yorkshire and has worked for the YAA since 2009. She is jointly responsible alongside Helen for overseeing our fundraising teams, implementing fundraising strategies and making sure we’re reaching our fundraising targets.

Kerry joined the charity in 2009 as one of our first Community Fundraisers and has a background in events co-ordination.

When asked what she loves the most about her job, Kerry said: “The passion and dedication of our brilliant supporters, I continue to be humbled by it, the amazing lifesaving work that we do and working with such a fantastic team.”

In her spare time Kerry enjoys spending time with her family, walking the dog, eating out and going on holiday.

Interesting fact: Kerry once had dinner with Ewan McGregor…along with 500 other people

Vickie Bowden is our Regional Fundraising Manager (West and South) and has worked for the Charity since 2016. Vickie joined the Charity as West Yorkshire Community Fundraiser, becoming West Yorkshire Regional Fundraiser in 2018 and Regional Fundraising Manager in November 2021. Vickie’s role involves overseeing all of the fundraising in West and South Yorkshire, working closely with West and South Regional and Community Fundraisers.

“I love the variety of my role and working with so many different people. My favourite part of my job has to be when we’re out and about and we hear stories from our ex-patients! There isn’t a day that goes by when we aren’t reminded about how vital the service is and the difference it can make”, said Vickie.

In her spare time, Vickie enjoys travelling and planning her next trip away. She also enjoys baking cakes and going to the gym afterward so she doesn’t feel quite as guilty and she’s also a Leader at her local Girls’ Brigade.

Interesting fact: Mickey Mouse used to be Vickie’s boss as she spent a summer working at Disney World in Florida!

Angela Vyas is our West Yorkshire Community Fundraiser. She covers the whole of the West Yorkshire region coordinating our in store events and work with local community groups.

“I really like that the role is varied and that I’m able to network and raise money for such an important cause. I also enjoy going to events that I would have never heard about such as Jazz festivals”, said Angela.

In her spare time, Angela enjoys walking, swimming and meeting new people.

Interesting fact: In her spare time Angela loves personalising items, be it clothes or ornaments.

Helen Berriman is one of our West Yorkshire Community Fundraisers and she joined the charity in January 2020, having previously worked in the Hospitality industry for the last 16 years.

“I joined the YAA following the birth of my third child. Whilst on maternity leave I had time to think about the things I enjoyed doing and one of the things that stood out was the fundraising involvement I had working in hotels. I am very fortunate and proud to work for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance”, said Helen.

In her spare time Helen enjoys spending time with her family and book folding, where you create pictures/ images through folding pages in a book.

Interesting fact:  Helen appeared on ‘Don’t tell the Bride’.  Whilst working at Oulton Hall, Leeds in 2010 Helen was the wedding coordinator and was the successful venue chosen to host the wedding reception.  Helen spent the full day filming a 5 minute show round and negotiation meeting.  The couple chose to arrive by helicopter and Helen had to arrange for the golf course to be closed for their arrival.

Laura Lawton is one of our South Yorkshire Community Fundraisers. She joined the Charity in 2019 after working in marketing and production for a well-known book publisher.

“I love the diverse nature of the job. No two days are the same. One day I could be doing a bucket collection in a supermarket, and the next I could be attending a gig performed by a Ukulele band! I work alongside a fantastic group of volunteers and fellow fundraisers and enjoy meeting a lot of interesting and inspiring groups and individuals”, said Laura.

When she’s not at work, Laura enjoys spending her time walking and being out in the countryside. She’s also a keen baker, a bookworm and a big fan of Barnsley Football Club and Formula One Racing.

Interesting fact:  Laura has visited over 15 battlefield sites across Northern Europe, including Dunkirk, Waterloo, the Somme, Normandy, Arnhem and Verdun. In 2018 Laura attended the Last Post Ceremony at the Menin Gate Memorial in Ypres to mark the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War.

Helen Callear is our Director of Fundraising for North and East Yorkshire. Prior to joining the YAA in 2013, she ran her own timber agency working with European timber suppliers to the UK.

Helen is responsible alongside Kerry for overseeing our fundraising teams, implementing fundraising strategies and making sure we’re reaching our fundraising targets.

“No two days are the same at the Yorkshire Air Ambulance. We are a family, and we are lucky enough to meet lots of wonderful people – donors, ex-patients and supporters across Yorkshire”, said Helen.

When Helen isn’t working, she enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, painting and reading.

Interesting fact: Helen was a swimmer at school and used to swim butterfly. She took part in many galas swimming alone because nobody else could do it. She was very slow but won because of lack of competition!

Rob Scott first joined the charity as a volunteer in 2015 and then became one of our East Yorkshire Fundraisers in 2018. Rob is responsible for overseeing all the fundraising in the East Yorkshire region, working alongside Kieran, Kevin and Bob.

“I enjoy getting out and about at all the shows and events and meeting the people that support us and help to keep the Charity saving lives”, said Rob.

Each year Rob runs a car rally to Benidorm to raise funds for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance. On average they have 65-75 cars that join them every single year!

Interesting fact: Rob has been a Gritter and snowplough driver for 15 years for North Yorkshire Highways and one of his ambitions is to drive the Dalton Highway in Alaska for the winter season in a truck.

Kevin Hutchinson is our East Region Community Fundraiser and has been working for the charity since 2016. Before joining the YAA Kevin worked in the hospitality industry as a qualified chef.

Speaking about what he loves about his job, Kevin said: “I enjoy attending the varied range of events across the region, working alongside of our amazing volunteers and meeting the public who support YAA and the patients the YAA has helped.”

In his spare time, Kevin enjoys socialising with friends, Saturday night’s out to see live entertainment and catching up on our TV show Helicopter ER.

Interesting fact: Kevin’s first couple of days working full time for the charity was the same time we unveiled our new Airbus H145 helicopter G-YAAC at Nostell ASU for the first time.

Linda Stead is our North Yorkshire Regional Fundraiser and has worked for the charity since 2016. Linda looks after our North Yorkshire regional fundraising team and oversees fundraising activity in her area, such as attending events, giving talks and holding stalls.

“I love the absolute randomness of the role, doing warm ups with a Santa run to judging talent competitions, or standing in a muddy field holding the gazebo down to stop it blowing away”, said Lin.

Lin enjoys cycling and trekking in her spare time and taking in the impressive views across North Yorkshire.

Interesting fact: Lin was airlifted from Pheriche hospital on Mt Everest after being taken ill on the way down from base camp. A very different helicopter to the amazing YAA helicopters.

Clare Deacon is one of our North Yorkshire Community Fundraisers and she joined the charity in January 2020.

“I enjoy working with people. Spreading the message of what we do whilst often meeting people who have been lifted is heart-warming and constantly reminds me of the need for such an important service”, said Clare.

In her spare time Clare is the chair of her local pre-school and likes being involved with the area she lives in. She also enjoys the great outdoors – working in and around North Yorkshire is a dream come true for Clare.

Interesting fact: Clare ran her own  busy mains Post Office for thirteen years. She was one of only 500 Customer Relationship Managers in the whole network, of 11,500 offices.

Tessa Klemz is our North Yorkshire Community Fundraiser and she joined the charity in 2019.

“I love the variety of the role and never knowing what each day is going to bring, who I’m going to speak to and whether I’m going to come home with £2, £20, £200 or £2,000. I really enjoy meeting all sorts of people with wonderful stories (some not always so happy) and having the opportunity to travel around beautiful North Yorkshire…whatever the weather. YAA is such a well respected and valued charity”, said Tessa.

In her spare time Tessa enjoys walking her dog Widget and trying to keep up with her sons on their mountain bikes. She also likes cooking, pilates, gardening, music and travel.

Interesting fact: Tessa volunteered at a self-help project charity in KwaZulu Natal in South Africa for six months in her early-20s.  There were sewing projects, pre-school feeding schemes, poultry projects, brick-making projects and vegetable planting.  One time she was driving on her own to a village and got stuck in the mud about ½ mile from her destination.  The local tractor had a flat tyre so a very friendly local organised his four donkeys who managed to pull her out.

Caroline Myers is the Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s Trust and Legacies Manager and has been working at the charity since 2016, having previously worked in Marketing and Communications in the manufacturing sector.

“I enjoy meeting donors and finding out why they are so passionate about the Yorkshire Air Ambulance”, said Caroline.

When she’s not working, Caroline enjoys walking, volunteering and cooking.

Katie Collinson is our Corporate and Partnerships Manager and has worked for the YAA since 2006.  Katie is the first port of call for all our charity partners and is responsible for putting together our corporate strategies.

“The charity is something very special. Every day is different and the sense of pride and achievement working for such a charity is wonderful”, said Katie.

Katie is a mum of two and enjoys shopping, holidays, spending time with her family and friends and going skiing!

Interesting fact: Katie rode a bike 302 miles from Huddersfield to Brighton for the YAA and HTAFC’s Keep it Up Campaign.

Laura joined Yorkshire Air Ambulance in 2021 as HR Manager. She has a degree in Psychology and Human Resources Management and is CIPD qualified. Laura has worked in a variety of HR roles within a variety of sectors during her career – housing, utilities, financial services, and construction.

Working in the charity sector for such a worthwhile cause is something Laura had always wanted to do and she enjoys the variety of work and interacting with the wider YAA team on a daily basis.

Laura has two young children who keep her very busy – a son who loves skateboarding and a daughter who enjoys ballroom dancing. She enjoys cooking, travel, fitness and spending time with her family and friends.

Irene Heap is our Finance Manager, she looks after our finance team and monitors the day-to-day financial operations within the Charity.

Allison Turner is our Finance Officer and she joined the charity in April 2010 following a career in accountancy.

Allison enjoys going to the gym and supporting Huddersfield Town Football Club.

Neale is our Director of Operations. He is responsible for the day to day running of our airbases, offices, IT requirements and administration – generally anything that is fixed to the ground.

Neale works closely with external agencies including the Yorkshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust, National Police Air Service (NPAS), Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), White Knights Yorkshire Blood Bikes & Local Mountain Rescue Services.

Neale joined the charity in 2003 and has held various posts in that time. Prior to joining the charity he worked in the insurance industry and automotive industry. Although not originally from Yorkshire Neale moved to the county in 1996 and is proud that his children are born and bred Yorkshire folk.

Louise Shorrock is our Office Manager. She provides guidance and support for our administrative team and oversees the general running of our Cayley House office.

Speaking of her role, Louise said: “I love that the Yorkshire Air Ambulance is a local charity and what I do really makes a difference to people’s lives.”

Louise owns a horse and in her spare time enjoys horse riding and spending time outdoors walking her dog. She is also a season ticket holder at Huddersfield Town!

Interesting fact: The Fire Brigade once had to come rescue Louise and her pony when they both ended up in the canal and it made the local news. Thankfully both were unhurt!

Tracey is our West and South Administrator and she is responsible answering your questions on the phone, booking events across the two areas, logging donations, and providing administrative support to our fundraising teams.

Joanne Wells joined the charity in 2018 following a career in banking and estate agency. She works in our administrative team taking phone calls, handling our mail and assisting with administrative advice for our Trusts and Legacies Manager.

“I enjoy being part of a fabulous team and feeling genuinely humbled by love and support by the public for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance”, said Jo.

Jo enjoys socialising, particularly with good food and wine and enjoys keeping fit with regular Metafit and Metapwr classes.

Interesting fact: I appear in both the music video and on the 12” cover for the most successful single of my favourite band!

Jill Pukacz is our executive PA and she provides administrative support to our Board of Trustees and our charity office staff.

Jill joined the charity in 2011 following a varied career in the housing and financial services sector.

Speaking of her role, Jill said: “It’s a refreshing change to work in the Charity sector, having been in the financial services world for much of my working life.  I enjoy the diversity of my role and supporting and working with a wonderful team of people to provide a first class air ambulance service to the county of Yorkshire.”

During her spare time, Jill enjoys walking, reading and spending time with her family.

Interesting fact: Jill has lived in South, East and West Yorkshire – three of our regions!

Peter first joined the Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) as a Trustee back in 2004 after retiring as a UK director from a major PLC in the construction products industry.

His varied career included 28 years with RMC Group PLC, an international building materials manufacturing company operating in 27 countries, which had an annual turnover of circa £5bn. For 5 years prior to retirement, in Nov 2003, Peter acted as their UK Customer Focus Director during their change management programme.

Peter brings to the YAA a wealth of experience in senior management, monitoring & delivering of business targets, workshops, strategic development, financial & budgetary control, and project implementation as well as being one of the most IT literate people we have ever met!

In 2016 Peter was awarded an MBE by Her Majesty The Queen, at Buckingham Palace, for ‘Voluntary Service to the Yorkshire Air Ambulance and the Community in West Yorkshire’.

Peter is married to Margaret who is a wonderful support to both him and the charity. They have three grown-up sons and 5 grandchildren.

Brian retired professionally in Summer 2021 after working for the healthcare company B. Braun Medical Ltd since 1989, and the prior 10 years working in the NHS. At B. Braun he was responsible for the development of strategic marketing, media relations, branding, advertising, and website, as well as their education function which provides continued learning for healthcare professionals. In his latter time at B. Braun, Brian oversaw professional & clinical relationship management for the company as well as engaging with medical & surgical professionals of the next generation.

Brian became involved with Yorkshire Air Ambulance in 2000 through initial contact by B. Braun to become a corporate partner and support the charity. He then became a Trustee of the YAA in October 2005 offering invaluable marketing expertise to assist with the growth of the charitable organisation. He was appointed as Vice-Chairman towards the end of 2016 and now focuses his time on overseeing the marketing, communications, and North & East Fundraising functions.

Brian is married to Sarah and they have two grown-up boys. Brian and his family live in Derby.

Richard is a Chartered Accountant with over 35 years’ experience of professional practice in South Yorkshire. Until his retirement in 2018 he was a partner in Hawsons Chartered Accountants, a firm he joined in 1986.

Richard has been a Trustee in a number of charities since 1993 and joined the Yorkshire Air Ambulance in 2020.

Richard lives near Wetherby in West Yorkshire and is married with a daughter and a step daughter.

Judith became a Trustee for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) in 2016 and is a retired GP, having worked in General Practice in Huddersfield for 26 years. During this time she also had a variety of senior clinical management roles and was active in delivering post-graduate education to all grades of frontline health professionals.

Judith enjoys her role in the charity, liaising with The Yorkshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust and members of the Critical Care Team.

Judith was born and educated in York before attending Leeds Medical School where she met her husband, who was also a GP. They have two grown up children and continue to live in Huddersfield.

Mike joined the Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) initially as a volunteer in 2017 and, due to his extensive background in the military, was subsequently invited to become a Trustee in 2019.

Prior to joining the YAA, Mike served in the Royal Air Force for 30 years fulfilling a wide variety of posts including crisis management operations in Whitehall, counter-narcotics law enforcement and immediately prior to his retirement as the Station Commander of RAF Scampton – the home of the Red Arrows.

With a Masters Degree in Leadership, he now works part-time as a leadership and management consultant as well as providing emergency planning advice to his local Parish Council.

Mike brings to the YAA considerable experience in leadership, senior management and air operations including the first-hand experience of aviation governance and its responsibilities.

Mike lives in Malham. He is married to Sarah-Jane and they have one grown-up son.

John is a Chartered Accountant and qualified with Deloitte & Co in 1981.

He became a partner with Baker Tilly in 1986, leaving that firm to join a client, Filtronic PLC in 1991, leading its flotation in 1994.

John has served as finance director of a number of public companies and in 2018 he joined Hargreaves PLC where he is currently their Group Finance Director & Company Secretary.

John joined the Yorkshire Air Ambulance Trustee board in 2012 and is our Trustee responsible for finance matters. He works very closely with our finance team, our auditors and investment partner organisations.

John is married to Alex and they have three daughters.

Kevin has been a Trustee since 2004 and now has responsibility for oversight of the Charity’s Aviation and Operational activities, working closely with Steve Waudby (Director of Aviation) and Neale Jacobs (Director of Operations).

Professionally, Kevin is now retired but his early career was in the motor industry and subsequently the banking sector, specialising in business delivery methods, regulatory risk, and colleague engagement. Before retiring to focus on Yorkshire Air Ambulance and being a Parish Councillor, Kevin owned a property management and sales business in Leeds.

Kevin lives in the East Riding of Yorkshire on the glorious Yorkshire Wolds with his wife Jan. He has a keen interest in motorsports and archery, together with regular travel experiences.

From a background in engineering, James has been the Group IT Director of Renew Holdings since 2002, responsible for the provision of IT/IS throughout the transformation of the holding company from YJL/Montpellier (construction/property/investments) to Renew Holdings (providing multi discipline engineering services).

James initially became involved with the Yorkshire Air Ambulance in 2016 advising on the upgrade of the charity’s computer systems. He then become a Trustee in 2017 and provides advise to the charity on Information Technology.

James is married to Nikki with two (nearly) grown up children and lives in Leeds.

Mark is a solicitor and partner at Yorkshire law firm Gordons LLP. He leads the food and drink sector at the firm and specialises in commercial disputes, data, and rare asset disputes.

Most of Mark’s time is spent advising listed or large privately owned businesses on challenging issues that they face from disputes with suppliers, regulators and how to avoid such situations entirely. That support regularly includes acting for his clients in High Court Proceedings and other forms of dispute resolution.

In addition to advising businesses in private practice, since qualifying as a solicitor Mark has spent time working in-house for businesses like Morrisons and Iceland.

Mark joined the Yorkshire Air Ambulance Board of Trustees in July 2021 to provide support, primarily on legal matters.

Mark is married to Rachel and they live in Huby, between Otley and Harrogate.

Percy joined the Yorkshire Air Ambulance in the summer of 2017 as a Pilot Mascot and has been working hard for us ever since. Attending a huge number of events and helping our fundraisers to tell as many people as possible about the work that we do saving lives across Yorkshire.

Percy is often joined by his colleague and good friend Polly Paramedic but sometimes you will see him at events with Polly, who may be attending another event at the same time.

Together with Polly, Percy took part in the 2019 Race for Jo – Mascot Race at Oakwell Country park on 23rd June 2019. It was a hot, sunny day but Polly and Percy did their very best. They may not have finished first but this race was definitely about the taking part and about meeting lots of other mascots from other charities and sports clubs. These included Ronnie the Rhino from Leeds Rhinos and Roger Ram from Dewsbury Rams RLFC.

If you would like to talk to us about Percy attending an event you are organising please contact your local fundraiser. You can find their details here.

Neale is our Director of Operations. He is responsible for the day to day running of our airbases, offices, IT requirements and administration – generally anything that is fixed to the ground.

Neale works closely with external agencies including the Yorkshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust, National Police Air Service (NPAS), Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), White Knights Yorkshire Blood Bikes & Local Mountain Rescue Services.

Neale joined the charity in 2003 and has held various posts in that time. Prior to joining the charity he worked in the insurance industry and automotive industry. Although not originally from Yorkshire Neale moved to the county in 1996 and is proud that his children are born and bred Yorkshire folk.

Abby is our Director of Marketing & Communications. She is responsible for the day to day running of the Marketing & Communications department at the Charity.

Anything which has the YAA brand on it falls under Abby’s responsibility along with the website, social media channels, internal and external communications, PR, Media, all our literature, merchandise and events that we organise, amongst other duties.

She is supported in the Marketing Department by a great team – Leanne Seward (Creative Marketing & Brand Manager), Angela Brearley (Digital Marketing Manager) Jessica McDonnell (PR & Communications Manager) and Rebecca Martin (Marketing Assistant)

Abby joined the Yorkshire Air Ambulance in December 2008 after previously working in advertising agencies and as a Marketing Manager for a Construction company. Not a native of Yorkshire, Abby now regards herself as an honorary Yorkshire lass after marrying a Yorkshire lad. When not at work, Abby is kept busy with her son and baby daughter.

Interesting fact: Abby once featured in the Sunday Mail after she won an award at High School.  The article was about a controversial scene in the Titanic movie when William Murdoch, the ships First Officer was portrayed as taking his own life, when actually this wasn’t the case.  Both Abby and William Murdoch are from Dalbeattie in Scotland and the town was in uproar when the movie was released, which also happened to be the same year Abby won the William Murdoch Memorial medal!  The controversy was picked up by national media, resulting in an article in the Sunday Mail by Dorothy Grace-Elder which featured Abby!

Kerry Dwyer is our Director of Fundraising for West and South Yorkshire and has worked for the YAA since 2009. She is jointly responsible alongside Helen for overseeing our fundraising teams, implementing fundraising strategies and making sure we’re reaching our fundraising targets.

Kerry joined the charity in 2009 as one of our first Community Fundraisers and has a background in events co-ordination.

When asked what she loves the most about her job, Kerry said: “The passion and dedication of our brilliant supporters, I continue to be humbled by it, the amazing lifesaving work that we do and working with such a fantastic team.”

In her spare time Kerry enjoys spending time with her family, walking the dog, eating out and going on holiday..

Interesting fact: Kerry once had dinner with Ewan McGregor…along with 500 other people

Helen Callear is our Director of Fundraising for North and East Yorkshire. Prior to joining the YAA in 2013, she ran her own timber agency working with European timber suppliers to the UK.

Helen is responsible alongside Kerry for overseeing our fundraising teams, implementing fundraising strategies and making sure we’re reaching our fundraising targets.

“No two days are the same at the Yorkshire Air Ambulance. We are a family, and we are lucky enough to meet lots of wonderful people – donors, ex-patients and supporters across Yorkshire”, said Helen.

When Helen isn’t working, she enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, painting and reading.

Interesting fact: Helen was a swimmer at school and used to swim butterfly. She took part in many galas swimming alone because nobody else could do it. She was very slow but won because of lack of competition!

Cpt Steve Waudby is our Director of Aviation. Steve has worked for the charity periodically since 2012 and took a permanent position within the charity in 2018, working his way up to Director of Aviation in 2019.

In his role as the Director of Aviation, he is responsible for the safety of our aircraft and crew, staff development and training along with aircraft maintenance.

“What I love about working for the YAA is the teamwork more than anything.  We have a wonderful bunch of paramedics and doctors who are second to none.  I like working in a team and the friendly banter that comes with it.  We see a lot of dreadful accidents and incidents each week, so it’s important to keep spirits lifted as much as possible and the team are fantastic at supporting each other”, said Steve.

In his spare time Steve enjoys photography and dancing.

Interesting fact: When Steve was 12 years old, he was given a Royal Award for Gallantry for saving a four-year-old who had fallen into a flooded quarry