MOST people in the county will know something of the life-saving work of the Devon Air Ambulance Trust, but more questions besides will be answered at the next meeting of Okehampton U3A.
Steve Clark of Devon Air Ambulance will be giving a talk at Okehampton U3A?s general meeting at the Ockment Centre at 2.30pm on Wednesday, July 28.
From its base at Exeter Airport, the Devon Air Ambulance is able to reach any part of the county rapidly, going where a road vehicle cannot.
The helicopter flies on average three missions a day and during the summer as many as eight.
It serves all kind of patients where speed is essential, reaching inaccessible spots on the high moor or cliff. It can fly above clogged roads and lift people from confined spaces at accident scenes. The helicopter carries dedicated trained paramedics and full emergency medical equipment and is funded by voluntary subscription.
Mr Clark will tell members the story of how the Devon Air Ambulance entered service in August 1992 and about its plans for launching a new helicopter this September.
In addition to its monthly speakers, Okehampton U3A is hoping to expand the number of its activity groups run by members for members.
There are already flourishing groups for field studies, opera, photography, philosophy, psychology and reading. Members also meet up to play backgammon, bridge and scrabble. Tai Chi begins again in September.
The U3A is also investigating the possibility of running groups in art, music, gardening, theatre and languages.
Increased membership would help to get these new ventures off the ground. Members can suggest groups in whatever areas interest them.
The U3A is open to all retired people over the age of 50.
The aim is to promote shared learning and interests in a friendly environment where members do not work for qualifications, only for enjoyment.
So come along to the Ockment Centre on July 28 or find out more by contacting the centre or telephoning 01837 52840.