One of the events that Hampshire Search and Rescue (HANTSAR) ran last year when celebrating their 20th anniversary was a charity raffle, the top prize being a flight in a helicopter.
The winner was none other than Andrew Kent, who as a Deputy Lieutenant was involved when HANTSAR were given the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2011.
The flight recently took place, and speaking afterwards Andrew said: “I have been a supporter of HANTSAR since I first heard of them. Their dedication and professionalism in the search and rescue of missing people in Hampshire is outstanding. I was surprised but delighted when I was told I had won their top prize last year and thoroughly enjoyed my recent helicopter flight. Not only did Alex take me up, but he also took my daughter-in-law for a short flight afterwards, which was a pleasant reminder of her days in the RAF.”
HANTSAR is very grateful to Alex Waite who kindly donated the flight towards their fundraising efforts.
HANTSAR assists the police in searching for missing vulnerable people anywhere in Hampshire. So far this year they have had 42 requests for assistance. In addition to this they train three times a month and do all their own fundraising. With no paid staff the team is reliant on public donations to keep operating.
HANTSAR volunteers come from all walks of life. The organisation is currently recruiting for support members who can help with fundraising or administrative tasks. Please look at their website www.hantsar.org or contact them via social media.
Picture caption: Andrew Kent and the helicopter that took him on his prize flight.