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The Air Ambulance Service appoints a new Chair of Trustees

The Air Ambulance Service (TAAS) is delighted to announce the appointment of Professor Bob Allison CBE DL as the new Chair of the lifesaving charity’s board of trustees.

Professor Allison will commence his tenure on 1st March and will lead the charity into its next phase of development and growth. It is a particularly exciting time for TAAS as it celebrates the 10th anniversary of the Children’s Air Ambulance this year whilst next year will mark the 20th anniversary of its very first lifesaving mission as the Warwickshire & Northamptonshire Air Ambulance – which began on 1st October 2003.

Commenting on his appointment, the former Vice-Chancellor and President of Loughborough University, Professor Allison said: “I am delighted to be able to play a part in the outstanding work done by The Air Ambulance Service which includes the Children’s Air Ambulance. The charity plays a critical role in saving lives and relies on the hard work and goodwill of many people, including numerous dedicated volunteers. To be able to contribute to such important work is an honour. I thank the Trustees for inviting me to be their next Chair and am grateful to everyone that contributes to our work and success.”

Professor Allison was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the 2021 Queen’s Birthday Honours for services to higher education, concluding with nine successful years at Loughborough University.

During Professor Allison’s tenure at Loughborough, the University rose into the top 10 in every national league table and was named University of the Year an unparalleled five times.

Professor Allison is a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society and of the British Society for Geomorphology. During his career, Allison has received several honours and awards, including the Cuthbert Peek Award from the Royal Geographical Society and the Charles Lyell Award from the British Association of the Advancement of Science.

Commenting on his appointment, TAAS Chief Executive Andy Williamson said: “On behalf of everyone involved with The Air Ambulance Service, I would like to warmly welcome Professor Allison to the charity.

“Bob brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience, and a record of achievement and excellence. I look forward to working closely with him as we begin an exciting new chapter for the charity.”

Professor Allison is appointed Chair following the end of term for predecessor Chris Faircliffe.

Chris, who spent seven years as chair of East Midlands Ambulance Service, is a current board member of Healthwatch Leicestershire and celebrated a wide-ranging career in the Civil Service and with national and international brewing companies. He became a TAAS trustee in 2012 and has served as chair for the past three years.

Commenting on his predecessor, Professor Allison commented: “On behalf of the charity and everyone touched by the organisation over his 10 years of service, I would like to thank Chris for his commitment and hard work as a trustee and as chair.”