Thames Valley Air Ambulance reported 3,293 call outs in 2023, the most the service has ever received.

The charity, celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, responded to 1,095 emergencies in Buckinghamshire, 943 in Oxfordshire, 1,177 in Berkshire, and a further 78 in surrounding areas.

May was an especially busy period, with crews answering 313 calls.

The most frequent emergencies were cardiac arrests, clocking in at 1,212 calls in 2023 - an average of more than three a day.

The air ambulance's paramedics and doctors deliver hospital-grade care to all ages in the community.

Last year, 213 gravely ill or injured children were treated, counting among them 86 toddlers under the age of five.

Amanda McLean, chief executive officer at Thames Valley Air Ambulance, said: "This year marks the 25th anniversary of our lifesaving service and, as these figures show, we’re reaching more patients than ever.

"Over the last 25 years, our charity has expanded and evolved.

"We’ve continued to be at the forefront of critical care, using state-of-the-art kit and being part of ground breaking research, as well as becoming an independent healthcare provider and bringing our air operations in-house."

Ms McLean added: "But we wouldn’t be able to do any of this without the support of the community that we serve.

"Thank you to everyone who has been part of our story over the last 25 years.

"We’re looking forward to having you by our side for the next chapter."