The Royce Rangers Under 12 football team have kicked off the new year with brand new training tops featuring the iconic local air ambulance logo on the back.

The team at the Oakham-based club have been given the new training tops by a player's parents who wished to support the team, and at the same time, promote the Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance (DLRAA) in the local community – a charity they respect a great deal.

The lifesaving service which relies on public donations to remain operational has been working tirelessly on the frontline throughout the pandemic - providing vital support to the NHS - so raising awareness for them in ways such as this is essential, especially as their local Oakham charity shops are temporarily closed again.

The father of player Logan Roberts, who has been a doctor with DLRAA over the last 8 years, Dr Leon Roberts MBE said: "Due to its isolated location, Rutland residents can benefit from the expert level of clinical care provided by DLRAA in some emergencies, and this vital service is a charity which relies on the support of local communities like Rutland to keep us flying - I have witnessed first-hand what a positive benefit this can bring."

Although in another lockdown, the boys have already sported their new red tops around the house and out in their gardens, excited for when they can get back out on the playing field.

DLRAA Community Fundraising Executive Vicky Evans added: "The Royce Rangers Under 12's new training tops look fantastic! We are so grateful to them for proudly displaying our charity logo to raise vital awareness of our lifesaving service.

"Last year, our crews were called out to 790 missions in Leicestershire and Rutland, so support from our local communities here is greatly appreciated."

Anyone wishing to support the frontline service can visit www.theairambulanceservice.org.uk or call 0300 3045 999.