A FUNDRAISING appeal has been launched to collect enough money to replace the Yorkshire Air Ambulance flight helmet that was stolen this week.

Maria Glover Crump, of Northern Cross MCC motorcycle group, said the theft was disgusting and she is hoping to raise £3,000 to replace the helmet which was recovered but in a damaged condition.

The vital piece of kit was taken on Thursday as the crew attended a 999 call in the West Royd area of Shipley.

The incident prompted universal outrage and disgust on social media, and the life-saving charity said it was "appalled" by the theft of the flight helmet costing £2,700 which is being investigated by police.

The piece of equipment will have to be replaced as it is too badly damaged, the charity said.

Maria Crump said the theft was "a shock to us all".

READ MORE:

Flight helmet stolen

and

YAA 'appalled' at theft

She said her motorcycle club always tried to support the YAA in any shape or form "as do all bike clubs".

"The thing is we are a small majority of people and, as you know, you don't have to ride a bike to need the help of the YAA," she added.

"They are on call for everyone.

"Seeing the theft did prompt this fundraiser even more so.

"You never know one of our own family or friends may need the YAA at anytime and they will be there."

She said the YAA never let anyone down and called on people to "just do a bit in return".

She says on her Gofundme page: "We have all heard of the absolute disgusting act of theft from an air ambulance helicopter.

"I am trying to raise the £3,000 they need to replace the helmet.

"Please can you help me with this?

"Thanks in advance for your contribution to this cause that means so much to me and all my biker friends."

The fundraising page is here