Londoners are being urged to join the final push of a campaign to raise money for a second air ambulance.

So far, London Air Ambulance has raised almost £4million of the £6million target to buy the helicopter.

People can get involved by volunteering or hosting an event during National Air Ambulance Week, which takes place from September 21 to 27.

Last year, London Air Ambulance treated 1,806 patients in total. When the helicopter is available, it can be at a scene up to eight times faster than in a rapid response car.

The current and only helicopter has been offline for maintenance for the equivalent of 50 days so far in 2015.

Graham Hodgkin, chief executive officer at London's Air Ambulance said: “We are so close to getting the second helicopter in the air and I would like to make one last plea to everyone to join our pilots, doctors, paramedics, charity staff and volunteers, who will be out in force in London, for ‘The Big Lift’. Volunteer or hold your own event – be as creative as you like. It’s easy to get involved and your support will help save lives.”

For more information and to join ‘The Big Lift’, email yourhelicopter@londonsairambulance.co.uk, call 020 7220 5476, or visit https://londonsairambulance.co.uk/2nd-helicopter/contact-us