Pupils from a school in Chipperfield were left “astonished” this morning, when a helicopter landed in surrounding fields.

Paramedics from Herts Air Ambulance touched down in fields belonging to St Paul’s Church of England Primary School in the Common, to show students how the helicopter is used for medical emergencies.

Nora Tattersoll, headteacher, explained: “We are one of five schools in Hertfordshire that has been randomly selected for today’s demonstration after we pledged to raise money for the air ambulance.

“Students were overwhelmed and astonished this morning when they first caught sight of the helicopter, they were so excited.

“We decided to raise money for the air ambulance because of all the vital work they do in providing emergency care and help in the area. We regularly catch sight of the helicopter in the sky on its way to attend emergencies.

“Usually days dedicated to wearing red are held to raise money for the service, but as our uniform is mainly red as it is, we think we’ll organise something different - a little out of the ordinary - instead.

“The children have had a wonderful time asking questions about the work the Herts Air Ambulance do – I think we may have a few budding paramedics here.”

While the sun shone, excited pupils aged from four to ten were shown around and inside the helicopter which is used for emergencies about five days a week.

Crew members and paramedics spent their time fielding questions from students as well as explaining how the on-board stretcher is used.

Christine Swettenham, Herts Air Ambulance fundraising administrator, stressed the importance of donating money to the service.

She said: “The Herts Air Ambulance, which covers some parts of Essex and Hertfordshire, has its costs covered by charitable donations – we do not get anything from the Government, we rely on what people can spare.

“It costs more than £130,000 a month to keep us in the air and for road accidents and life-threatening circumstances we are invaluable, we are quick to respond and treat.

“That’s why it is so important that we get as much money as possible to keep us running.

“It has been heart-warming to see all the children at St Paul’s School pledge their support.”

To donate money to the Herts Air Ambulance visit: http://www.hertsairambulance.uk.com/