A FAMILY-run scrap metal business has today given the Star’s Lifesaver Appeal a major boost by donating �1,000 to help the county’s air ambulance.

The donation from Whip Street Motors in Paper Mill Lane, Bramford, will go towards �10,000 the East Anglian Air Ambulance needs to buy specialist equipment for night-time flying

Charlie Baker, who owns the firm with his siblings, Jodhi, Kevin and Greg Baker, said it is vital local people support the charity to ensure they can carry on their life-saving work in the skies above Suffolk.

He said: “We saw the appeal in the Star and being a long-standing local company we wanted to give something back to the local community.

“You never know when you or your family may need the help of the air ambulance.

“It is a vital service which saves lives every day and it is vital people back them to ensure their work goes on. We are very proud to donate this money and help with the Star’s appeal.”

A charity spokeswoman said: “This is such a fantastic sum and our thanks go to all at Whip Street Motors for their generous donation to the Star’s LifeSaver appeal.

“The appeal is tremendous and has already raised the awareness of the charity among local people.

“We can’t thank the Star enough for the support it’s giving us and the enthusiasm it’s showing for work we do.”

Star editor Nigel Pickover said: “This is a fantastic gesture and has really helped us kick-start this appeal. Our next big push will be at next Friday’s Press Ball, organised by the Star.

“Donations of any size are vital to helping this worthwhile charity continue their essential work, saving lives everyday.”

n Show your support for the Star’s Lifesaver Appeal, donate online at www.justgiving.com/starlifesaverappeal or send a cheque to Ipswich Star Lifesaver Appeal, East Anglian Air Ambulance, Whitehouse Distribution Centre, Whitehouse Road, Ipswich, IP1 5NX. Cheques should be made payable to East Anglian Air Ambulance.