Archives: Team Members

George Rieger

Meet George Rieger, one of our experienced Line Pilots at Yorkshire Air Ambulance. George lives just over the border in Nottinghamshire but has strong family ties to the Howardian Hills in North Yorkshire, where he spent much of his childhood and still enjoys visiting today.

He began flight training in the USA back in 2009 and has flown HEMS missions across the UK since 2018, having previously spent seven years flying in the North Sea. George was drawn to YAA by his connection to the region, saying, “Serving the area that means so much to me and my family is incredibly rewarding. The most satisfaction comes from being part of a close-knit team where you know a real difference has been made for the patient and their loved ones.”

Outside of work, George enjoys all things motorsport, especially Formula 1, along with indoor climbing and playing guitar.

A fun fact about George is that he once provided dedicated air ambulance cover for the Formula 1 at Silverstone, giving him a private view of the racing and a very quick exit from the track!

Charlotte Bray

A line drawing of a camera and a photo, with the words 'PHOTO COMING SOON'

West Community Fundraiser

Charlotte Bray is one of our West Yorkshire Community Fundraisers, covering Halifax, Huddersfield and Bradford. She joined Yorkshire Air Ambulance in 2025 and brings plenty of energy and enthusiasm to the role. From organising and attending events to arranging bucket collections and stewarding our incredible supporters, Charlotte works closely with our brilliant volunteers to help raise vital funds and awareness across her patch.

Born and raised in Halifax, Charlotte has always been aware of the vital work Yorkshire Air Ambulance does. “You often see the helicopter flying overhead, and it really hits home,” she explained. “It’s always a case of ‘you never know when you might need it’, and hearing the stories of those we’ve helped just reminds me why we do what we do.”

Before joining YAA, Charlotte worked at Leeds Hospitals Charity, where she focused specifically on the Rob Burrow MND Centre Appeal. It was during this time she discovered her passion for community fundraising and knew she wanted to stay in the charity sector long term.

Outside of work, Charlotte enjoys running, reading, going to gigs and festivals, and spending time with friends. She’s also a proud Leeds Knights Ice Hockey fan and shares her home with Chester – a lovable mix of Labrador, Basset Hound, and St. Bernard!

Claire McGivern

Head and shoulders image of a lady with long blonde hair wearing a dark blue flight suit infront of a yellow helicopter

Meet Claire McGivern, one of our skilled Technical Crew Members (TCMs) who joined the Yorkshire Air Ambulance team in November 2024. Originally from Hull, Claire now lives in Gilberdyke, East Yorkshire.

As a TCM, Claire plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth and safe operation of our aircraft. She carries out essential pre-flight checks, supports the Pilot during key flight phases such as take-off, approach, and landing, and assists the medical team as an Emergency Care Assistant (ECA).

Claire started her career as a dental nurse, a role she held for seven years, before deciding to follow her passion for emergency care. She spent eight years as an ECA with Yorkshire Ambulance Service, working out of Brough Station, where she made lifelong friendships.

Outside of work, Claire enjoys spending time with her family, including her 11-year-old son, as well as traveling and holidays. While she’s visited many places, Dubai tops her list of favourites—closely followed by Ibiza!

An interesting fact about Claire is that in 2019 she lived and worked in a military hospital in Ukraine, providing ambulance and medical support to front-line soldiers. Reflecting on the experience, she said, “It pushed me out of my comfort zone and gave me invaluable trauma experience – it’s one of the best things I’ve ever done.”