Applecross Helipad First Emergency Landing

HELP Appeal, May 19, 2021 - A lifesaving helipad in Applecross in the West Highlands, which was built in memory of Bethany Walker, has received its first landing from a HM Coastguard’s Search and Rescue Helicopter.

The patient was taken to Raigmore Hospital in Inverness in 34 mins – a journey which is normally two hours or more by road.

Thanks to a £50,000 donation from the HELP Appeal and money raised from a local community fund created by Bethany’s mum Heather, which also included a donation from actor Hugh Grant, the helipad was completed in April.

The permanent helipad enables the Scottish Air Ambulances and larger coastguard helicopters to land at any time in Applecross. Previously, they could only land in the village if the local pub car park, campsite or wild camping area were empty. Looking for a suitable place to land, delayed treatment for critically ill patients and led to fuel wastage.

The new, permanent helipad is also able to accommodate landings around the clock, with state of art lighting being used during darkness hours.