FORMER Tory leader William Hague highlighted a cause in need of the public's backing yesterday.

The Richmond MP travelled to Northallerton, North Yorkshire, to meet paramedics and air crew who operate the Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

The 140mph Eurocopter Bolkow 105 touched down in the town's Applegarth car park at about 11am to allow the public a chance to have a close look at its medical equipment.

Based at Leeds Bradford Airport, it can be anywhere in North Yorkshire or Cleveland within minutes.

And, once it has reached a casualty, the trip to hospital can be smoother and quicker than an ordinary ambulance. For example, the journey from Hawes to the Friarage Hospital, in Northallerton, would take an ambulance 45 minutes, but the helicopter can do it in ten.

It costs £1m to keep the aircraft flying for a year, and much of that has to come from private donations or commercial sponsorship.

"The helicopter has already flown 84 missions this year," said fundraising manager John Everson.

"Since its launch, in October 2000, it has become a vital part of the emergency services network - but is not funded by the Government or the health service.

"We rely very much on the support of the public, and events like this one, to highlight what we do."

Anyone who would like to find out more about how to support the Yorkshire Air Ambulance should call 0845 120 3185 or 07764 906515