Air Ambulance Charity Kent Surrey Sussex (KSS) is delighted to announce that Sussex-based Olympic gold medallist Sally Gunnell OBE has become an official ambassador for the charity, marking her support for its lifesaving work across the region.
The announcement comes as KSS invites people across Sussex to come together for a day of adventure, fundraising and family fun this summer at its popular Heli Hike in Sussex and Family Fun Day.
Taking place on Saturday 13 June at Wiston Park, Steyning, the two events promise something for all ages, from scenic countryside walking routes to hands-on activities and the chance to meet the charity’s lifesaving crews and see the air ambulance helicopter up close*.
Sally Gunnell to support KSS as new ambassador
As a newly appointed ambassador for KSS, Sally Gunnell will help champion the vital work of KSS, delivering lifesaving pre-hospital emergency care across Kent, Surrey and Sussex. Earlier this year, she showed her support by taking part in the charity’s Run 31 challenge, helping to raise awareness and funds.
Sally Gunnell OBE said; “I’m absolutely delighted to become an ambassador for KSS. Their crews provide an incredible, lifesaving service, bringing expert emergency care directly to people when they need it most. Having always been passionate about health, wellbeing and supporting communities, it feels very special to be able to support such an important local charity and help raise awareness of the vital work they do.”
One of Britain’s most celebrated athletes, Sally Gunnell OBE is best known for her achievements in the 400m hurdles, becoming the first woman in history to hold Olympic, World, European and Commonwealth titles at the same time. She won Olympic gold at the 1992 Barcelona Games and set a world record of 52.74 seconds when winning the World Championships in 1993. Since retiring from athletics, Sally has remained a passionate advocate for health, wellbeing and community causes across the UK.
KSS Chief Executive David Welch said: “Our Sussex Heli Hike and Family Fun Day are special events which will again bring our community together in support of the lifesaving care we provide every day. Whether you’re taking on the challenge of the hike or joining us for the celebrations at the Family Fun Day, there really is something for everyone.”
“We’re especially proud to welcome Sally Gunnell as a newly appointed ambassador for KSS. Her passion for health, wellbeing and community, combined with her inspiring profile, will play an important role in helping us reach more people, raise vital funds and continue saving lives across the region.”
Step out and make every stride count
The offers participants the chance to support their local air ambulance by taking on either a 3-mile or 7.5-mile route through the South Downs, with breathtaking views across rolling hills, woodland and vineyards.
Open to all abilities, the event encourages walkers to sign up with friends, family and even their dogs to raise vital funds to help KSS continue to provide expert pre-hospital emergency care across Kent, Surrey and Sussex.
Every step taken supports the charity’s work in delivering lifesaving interventions at the scene of an incident, from advanced trauma care to blood transfusions, bringing the emergency room directly to patients when every second counts.
Participants can also look forward to a celebratory finish, with medals, refreshments supplied by Wiston’s very own vineyard, and access to a dedicated VIP area at the Family Fun Day.
A celebration for the whole community
Running alongside the Heli Hike, the Family Fun Day begins at 11am and offers an exciting programme of entertainment designed to engage and inspire visitors of all ages.
Highlights of the day include:
- The chance to meet KSS crew members and see the helicopter up close (subject to operational availability)
- Live demonstrations, including CPR and emergency services response demonstrations involving West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, SECAmb and Sussex Police.
- Live music, street food and local stalls supporting the community
- A dedicated children’s area featuring rides, face painting and interactive activities
- The popular Mini Medic Mission, helping young visitors learn vital lifesaving skills in a fun environment
The event also showcases the partnership working behind emergency care, with representatives from local emergency services joining the day.
Get involved
With limited places available, supporters are encouraged to:
- Sign up for the Heli Hike and start fundraising
- Book tickets for the Family Fun Day
- Bring friends and family along to enjoy a memorable day out while supporting a critical local service
Whether taking on the hike, learning new skills or simply enjoying the atmosphere, every participant will play a part in helping KSS save lives across the region.
KSS relies on the generosity of supporters to raise the millions needed each year to keep its helicopters and rapid response vehicles operational. Events like the Heli Hike and Family Fun Day play a vital role in ensuring crews can continue to respond to emergencies 24/7.
By bringing together challenge, celebration and community engagement, the day offers a powerful reminder of the difference local support makes. For more information on the charity, its work and how to support it visit aakss.org.uk