The team that produce Helicopter Heroes, the BBC documentary series that follows Openhouse’s clients the Yorkshire Air Ambulance, have won a national award.

The Guild of Air Pilots Award for Aviation Journalism 2014 was won by the BBC Yorkshire crew after they were nominated by their documentary subjects the Yorkshire Air Ambulance and Chief Pilot, Andy Lister.

Network Editor, Ian Cundall, collected the award with Series Producer Andy Joynson from HRH Prince Michael of Kent. Originally the show was presented by Richard Hammond as a thank you to the Yorkshire Air Ambulance that saved his life after he near fatally crashed a jet engined car, the show is currently presented by ex-policeman, Rav Wilding.

The team of Helicopter Heroes has made 130 episodes over the past 8 years and has had very high audience appreciation throughout its life. The team who shoot the show are all qualified aircrew and have flown more than 3,000 missions with the Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

Captain Lister, who put them forward for the role shined with praise for them as he said: “The team’s work has contributed to greater public understanding of many issues facing HEMS crews …they’ve shown a very high level of commitment to flight safety and members have displayed high standards of airmanship throughout their time with the YAA.

“In a world where journalists are often criticised for their lack of understanding of aviation issues and, sometimes, a tendency to over-dramatise on TV, the Helicopter Heroes team is a shining exception. Few journalists or broadcasters can justifiably claim to have helped others save lives in the air.”

The annual Air Pilot awards honour the amazing bravery, courage and achievements of pilots globally. Mr Cundall was delighted with the award, “We are truly honoured to have been nominated by the Yorkshire Air Ambulance to be receive this amazing award.

“Helicopter Heroes has been a real labour of love for all those who have worked on the programme.”

A well deserved award to a very passionate team.

Openhouse have been working with and supporting the Yorkshire Air Ambulance for a number of years supplying them with a range of bespoke bags and equipment.