The Essex Air Ambulance recently made its 7,000th flight since launching in July 1998. David Crozier, director of Essex Air Ambulance Trust said: "This remarkable figure not only serves to highlight the fact that our county needs an emergency medical helicopter service but it also highlights the generosity of the people of Essex.

"It is only through donations made by individuals, organisations and local business that the helicopter is able to continue to provide the life-saving service that it does.

"Thanks to them we can continue to provide a life-saving aircraft to those who need it most."