The Air Ambulance Service plans to open a cafe within its Oakham charity shop

A new cafe could help to keep a life-saving service running across three counties.

The Air Ambulance Service wants to open a cafe within its Oakham Home Store in Cold Overton Road.

The shop raises money to maintain an air ambulance service in Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland.

A spokesperson for the charity said: “We want to enhance our offering to the local community. This new addition will provide a welcoming space for shoppers to take a break, enjoy hot and cold beverages, and relax over delicious cakes.

“Our goal is to create a real community hub where visitors can connect, support a vital cause and enjoy their time in store.”

The charity needs planning consent from Rutland County Council before the cafe can open because the building only has permission to be used for the sale of goods, not food.

Extra volunteers will be needed if the plans are approved.

The spokesperson added: “We already have a fantastic team of volunteers in our store and the cafe will allow us to welcome even more people looking to contribute to our lifesaving work while gaining valuable skills and experience.

“We rely solely on public donations and the income generated from our stores to keep our helicopters flying and saving lives. The cafe will generate further income, ensuring we can continue our mission to provide critical care across the region.”

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