Unlike other emergency services, the country's air ambulance services are not funded by the government and rely almost entirely on public support.

And with tomorrow being the 09/09/09 – or 999 – they hope to attract more attention - with a little help from Del Boy, aka actor David Jason, who is also patron of the Air Ambulance Association (AAA).

David said: "The air ambulance service and their highly skilled medical crew help to save the lives of people seriously injured in accidents or who are suffering a medical emergency.

"The speed with which they can reach patients and the advanced skills they offer can make the difference between life and death, between permanent disability and recoverable injury."

The Only Fools And Horses actor said air ambulances had to raise thousands of pounds every week to keep their helicopters flying.

He said: "It's a daunting target, particularly during these difficult times, but with your help we can do it.

"We must secure the future of this emergency service which helps to save so many lives - we need you today, you may need us tomorrow."

Chief executive of the Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance Service John Tickner said it needed £3 million each year to continue saving lives with its two helicopters based at Marden and Dunsfold.

He said: "We're extremely grateful to the thousands of people in Sussex, who dig deep to keep our service airborne, especially during these tough times."

For more information on donating money go to www.sussexairambulance.co.uk