The Lincs and Notts Air Ambulance, which is celebrating its 25th year, has appealed to the public to help it survive the coronavirus crisis.

The charity needs to raise £4m a year to sustain its operations, but it is facing a loss of funding after temporarily closing its shops and box and cheque collections because of the Covid-19 pandemic and social distancing rules.

Karen Jobling, chief executive officer, said: “Our priority is to ensure that our life-saving service continues. It is an unavoidable fact that the effects of the pandemic will be felt in our fundraising efforts.

“We will lose a significant amount of funding because of the postponement or cancellation of events, talks and other work that is provided by our crew, staff and dedicated volunteers.

“To operate, we rely on donations from our supporters. It is only because of them that we are able to provide critical care in incredibly difficult circumstances. I know it’s a tough time for everyone but anyone who helps with a donation, helps to keep the helicopter flying.”

The charity said it would monitor developments with the COVID-19 pandemic, but remained committed to providing a pre-hospital critical care response during the outbreak.

“Our Ambucopter crew continue to respond to emergencies and are well placed to respond to this ever-changing picture. They have taken delivery of full Personal Protective Equipment to ensure patient safety and, of course, to protect themselves,” the charity said.

“We are working alongside our ambulance service colleagues and NHS hospitals to monitor developments to ensure that patients across Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire continue to receive the best possible care.

“In order to protect our staff, volunteers and the wider community, we have cancelled all events, cheque collections, talks, box collections and all upcoming engagements which involve the gathering of people.

“We haven’t yet cancelled our Ride to Save Lives or Morocco Three Peaks Challenge, which take place later this year, but we will monitor the situation.”