Local man reaches new heights

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A Polegate man's career has taken off to new heights after he landed his dream job as a press officer for the Sussex Air Ambulance.

 

Former Eastbourne Herald news editor Jamie Cheshire, 31, will be aiming to win more media coverage for the life-saving charity.

  

Jamie’s duties will include writing press releases on 999 call-outs and writing ‘Real Life’ stories for the website.

 

He will also be working with East Sussex County Fundraiser Bridget Pepper to drum up much-needed support to keep the helicopter airborne.

 

Jill Playle, Director of Communications for the Air Ambulance said ‘I am really pleased that Jamie has joined the team. His media background will, I’m sure benefit the charity and help us to raise vital funds so that we can continue to offer a life-saving Air Ambulance service across Sussex’.

 

The father-of-one joined the Air Ambulance at its headquarters in Marden, Kent, and Sussex base at Dunsfold on February 1.

 

Jamie spent the previous six years as a reporter at a press agency in Lewes writing news stories for national newspapers.

 

He said: “For me personally it’s very much a new year, new start. It certainly makes a change from working in an office in the town centre to an air base out in the sticks.

 

“I have a massive area to cover but one which will undoubtedly keep me very busy. I’m relishing the challenge and I'm sure I will enjoy my time here.”

 

Jamie joined the Eastbourne Herald in 2000 and the first major story he covered was the dramatic air rescue of four teenagers who plunged over a cliff in a car at Holywell.

 

He added: “I saw then at first hand the vital role that the helicopter plays in saving people’s lives and the challenging situations in which they have to land.

 

"I feel privileged and honoured to be only the second press officer for the charity in this relatively new role."

 

If you have a fundraising event planned in aid of the Air Ambulance or would like to become a volunteer please call East Sussex fundraiser Bridget Pepper on 07800 649246.

 

Jamie can be contacted on 01622 833833, 07800 904194 or by emailing jamiec@kaat.org.uk.