Three Ashby youngsters have been recognised as fundraising champions for the Children's Air Ambulance national charity.

Poppy Weston, and Maia and Ella Swanepoel, along with Stanley and Oliver Brown from Narborough, have dedicated their time doing a variety of activities and fundraisers - including creative lockdown initiatives - to raise as much money as possible to keep The Children's Air Ambulance's AgustaWestland 169 aircraft flying lifesaving missions.

Operated by The Air Ambulance Service, The Children's Air Ambulance is an inter-hospital transfer service flying critically ill babies and children from one hospital to another for specialist care.

With their ability to fly approximately four times faster than a land ambulance, they can minimise travel times and the risk for little patients.

The youngsters from Ashby are members of #TheCrew, an exciting club for children linked to the lifesaving charity, and because of their dedication, have now achieved their Silver Award or Gold Award for raising a collective £760.

The five of them will be receiving a new certificate and club ID badge in silver or gold colours, as well as 10 and 20 per cent off donated items in the charity's retail stores – in recognition of their fantastic fundraising efforts.

Youth Development Manager for TCAA, Anoushka Brown commented, "We are so happy that they enjoy being members of #TheCrew and we are so grateful for their brilliant fundraising – it really is such an honour to present them with their well-deserved silver and gold awards!"

As part of #TheCrew, children can learn about saving lives, helicopters, medicine, fundraising and how a charity works.

The club offers advice and teaching on community work, volunteering, working as part of a team and supporting good causes - which form part of many school curriculums.

"It is completely free to join and, once signed up, members will receive an awesome welcome pack," added Anoushka.

The club has also launched a month-long Mascot Competition until 18 November and encourages children to sign-up and get involved for a chance to win a family pass to a theme park of choice, as well as a visit to TCAA helicopter base.

Anyone wishing to find out more about the charity, #TheCrew or competition, can call 0300 3045 999 or visit Children's Air Ambulance.