Leicestershire charity superstore celebrates funding more than 1,000 lifesaving missions

Your local air ambulance’s Melton Mowbray superstore is celebrating funding more than 1,000 lifesaving missions for the Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance (DLRAA), as the charity celebrates 15 years of vital service.

The Hanger superstore opened its doors on 19 November 2021 and is situated in Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire. Over the past two years the store has generated £1,735,702.00, funding more than 1,000 lifesaving missions – ensuring the charity can continue saving lives in Leicestershire and further field.

The store has received 111,335 bags of donated goods but continues to require support from the local community with further donations of new and preloved items, as these provide vital income for the charity.

The Hanger contains a brilliant variety of new and pre-loved items including, homeware, furniture, clothing, electricals, living and brand-new white goods.

Customers can also take a break from browsing and shopping for bargains to enjoy the delicious array of cakes and hot and cold beverages available in the Landing Pad Café, which has generated a further £287,380.00.

Within minutes, DLRAA’s critical care crews can be on the ground delivering pre-hospital emergency care and giving patients the very best chance of survival – this vital service relies entirely on donations to raise the £1,700 needed for each rescue mission, as the charity receives no government or National Lottery funding.

Store Manager Kerry Martin said: “We want to thank everyone for the overwhelming support we have received over the last two years. Without support like this our crews wouldn’t be able to provide pre-hospital critical care to those who need it most.”

“Supporters can visit the superstore not only to shop and enjoy a drink and slice of cake, but to also donate items using our in-store donation station. We still rely on the local community’s support with donations of pre-loved items such as bric-a-brac, clothing and toys to keep our crews flying 24/7, 365 days per year,” added Kerry.

The charity is celebrating 50,000 missions and its 15^th anniversary of providing its lifesaving service across Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland in 2023 and is encouraging people to visit a charity store and grab a bargain, donate unwanted clothing to one of many clothing banks, get involved in a challenge event, fundraise, or even sign up to volunteer.

For more information, please visit: www.theairambulanceservice.org.uk or call 0300 3045 999.