Ellesmere Port Brownies become Helicopter Heroes after lifesaving challenge

Young members of a Brownies Troop in Ellesmere Port have been learning how to become real-life heroes after completing the North West Air Ambulance Charity’s Helicopter Hero badge.

The enthusiastic troop took part in the programme run by the North West Air Ambulance Charity (NWAA), which teaches children important safety awareness and basic first aid skills while helping them understand the lifesaving work carried out across the region. 

As part of their challenge, the Brownies also organised a sponsored silence to raise money for NWAA, raising over £900, which will support the charity’s vital work responding to emergencies across the North West. 

The Helicopter Hero badge encourages young people to learn practical skills that could help in an emergency, while inspiring them to support the charity that brings advanced medical care directly to patients when they need it most. 

Sue Collins, Brownie leader said: 

“The girls absolutely loved learning about the North West Air Ambulance Charity and the amazing work the crew do every day.  

“They were fascinated by the helicopters and really proud to learn some simple skills that could help someone in an emergency. 

“Taking part in the sponsored silence was a big challenge for them, but they were determined to raise as much as possible. Seeing them work together and achieve £900 was fantastic.” 

Danny Daynes, Regional Fundraiser at NWAA said: 

“The Brownies have done an incredible job completing the Helicopter Hero badge. They’ve not only learned about the importance of the North West Air Ambulance Charity, but they’ve also gained new lifesaving knowledge that could one day help someone in need. 

"The money they’ve raised during their sponsored silence is a brilliant achievement. Community support like this makes a huge difference to us as a charity because every mission we attend is funded entirely by donations.” 

The Helicopter Hero badge programme has grown in popularity since launching in 2024 and was highly commended for the Awareness Campaign of the Year, at the Access Not-for-profit Impact Awards, recognising its impact in helping young people learn practical safety and first aid skills. 

To find out more about NWAA’s Helicopter Hero badge, visit: 

the charity’s website.