A motocross rider who suffered significant injuries in West Cumbria last year is backing a campaign to support the Great North Air Ambulance after meeting the crew that saved his life.

Scott Pohlman, 19, was competing at an event at Dean Moor Motocross Park, near Workington, last May when he lost control of his bike while trying to jump.

He hit the floor at speed and sustained substantial injuries to his foot, knee, shoulder and also major trauma injuries to his head.

Scott, from Maidenhead in Berkshire, was unconscious throughout his ordeal and was airlifted to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle.

He has since made a full recovery and is due to start studying at Hartpury College in Gloucester this month.

The Great North Air Ambulance needs to raise about £4.5 million every year to survive.

Scott said: "I wouldn’t be here if they weren’t on the scene so fast, and didn’t take care of me the way they did.

"I just owe my life to them, I can’t thank them enough."

Mandy Drake, head of fundraising for GNAAS, said: "We would like to thank Scott and his family for getting on board with National Air Ambulance Week.

"It’s great to see Scott doing so well since his accident, and supporting our charity."