STAFF and customers of Chagford-based Helpful Holidays are helping to keep the two Devon Air Ambulance helicopters flying throughout 2010.

While each customer was asked if they would like to make a donation when they made their booking, the sum raised was then match-funded by Helpful Holidays, making a grand total of £1,712.

Christine Phillips, of Helpful Holidays, said: 'We are based here on Dartmoor and no less than three of our members of staff have been airlifted so it is a charity that is very close to our hearts.

'My own daughter, Merryn, was just two weeks old when she needed airlifting from Dartmoor to Exeter Hospital last autumn.

'You never think you will need the air ambulances yourself but, when you do, it is so reassuring to know that they are there.

'We live and work in a beautiful but remote part of the county and the speed with which the helicopters and medical crew can reach us really does make a difference.'

Caroline Creer, director of fundraising for Devon Air Ambulance Trust said: 'We are very grateful to all at Helpful Holidays for their superb support.

'It is certainly a coincidence that we have been able to assist in three emergencies for them directly, but, whether it be for residents of our beautiful county or for holiday-makers enjoying the area, we are thankful for the generosity shown by the staff and customers of Helpful Holidays.'