Cliff Gale wins prestigious Chairs Award at AAUK Excellence Awards 2023

Cliff Gale has been recognised for his contribution to the air ambulance sector by winning the Chairs Award at the 2023 Air Ambulance UK Awards of Excellence.

Hosted by sports presenter, Hayley McQueen, the annual awards, which took place on the 30^th November, celebrate and recognise the dedicated professionals who tirelessly contribute their specialised lifesaving skills and unwavering commitment to the air ambulance community.

Cliff was presented with the prestigious award in recognition of his remarkable and lasting contribution to the air ambulance sector.

Chosen by AAUK’s Chair, the award acknowledged Cliff’s exceptional leadership over 15+ years steering Essex & Herts Air Ambulance to incredible milestones and laying the groundwork for exceptional growth. Special mention was made to his vision in leading transformative changes, from establishing a new base at Earls Colne to acquiring the AgustaWestland 169 (AW169) helicopter and developing the North Weald Airbase. He was also praised for his dedication and strategic prowess, which have propelled EHAAT’s growth and enhanced its operational excellence.

Cliff retired as Operations Director for Essex & Herts Air Ambulance earlier in 2023, but he has continued to work with the charity on a part-time basis overseeing the implementation of its carbon reduction strategy alongside other projects.

Essex & Herts Air Ambulance also achieved the shortlist in two other categories this year; They were ‘Innovation of the Year’ with the Centre for Excellence (won by Magpas Air Ambulance), and Clinical Support Manager, Alice Gardner making the final stages in the ‘Operation Support Staff of the Year’ category (won by Greg Browning at Wales Air Ambulance),

Simmy Akhtar, Air Ambulances UK CEO said “Congratulations to our 2023 Awards of Excellence winners and their outstanding contributions. Our panel of judges made some tough decisions when choosing the winners and we would like to thank everyone who entered. Despite continuously having to face global and national challenges, the air ambulance community throughout the UK has remained determined to provide the highest-level specialised patient care at the scene. All nominees across categories, along with the shortlisted candidates and winners, collectively form a united group that collaborates to support their local communities during times of necessity. We extend our immense gratitude to the dedicated staff, volunteers, and supporters within our life-saving community.”

For full details on all the award winners visit Air Ambulances UK