THE PRINCE OF WALES has praised the lifesaving work of Wales Air Ambulance as the charity marked its 25th anniversary with a gala fundraiser.
The charity’s Royal Patron attended the special dinner at Celtic Manor, Newport, on Friday, June 26, joining volunteers, former patients, crew members, partners and supporters to celebrate a quarter of a century of emergency critical care across Wales.
Hosted by television and radio presenter Jason Mohammed, the event raised £180,000 for the charity, including more than £85,000 in sponsorship from corporate supporters.
Since its launch on St David’s Day in 2001, Wales Air Ambulance has grown from a single aircraft operating limited hours into a nationwide, 24-hour service. Its crews now have access to four aircraft and a fleet of rapid response vehicles, delivering advanced hospital-standard care at roadsides, homes, mountainsides, coastlines and other emergency scenes.
The charity has attended more than 57,000 missions since it was founded.
Speaking at the event, the Prince paid tribute to the crews and supporters who have helped build the service.
He said: “For 25 years, Wales Air Ambulance has provided a vital service to people and communities across Wales. In life-threatening moments, its crews have brought advanced critical care directly to those in greatest need, offering help and hope.”
He also praised the charity’s international reputation and its focus on evidence-based care.
The Prince said: “Wales Air Ambulance has earned an international reputation for the service it delivers, and for its commitment to evidence-based decision-making that helps ensure the best possible care for the people of Wales.”
The evening also featured powerful patient stories, including an address from former patient Alan Owen, who suffered a cardiac arrest while playing walking football in April 2022.
Alan was without a heartbeat for eight minutes before being revived by those around him. Wales Air Ambulance clinicians then provided advanced critical care at the scene, stabilising him and helping coordinate the onward treatment that saved his life.
Reflecting on his experience, Alan told guests: “There is no doubt in my mind that without the Wales Air Ambulance, I would not be standing here today.”
He also spoke about the lasting impact on families, describing loved ones as “co-survivors” whose trauma is different but no less real.
He added: “I have been given more time. Time with my family. Time that I would not have had without this charity.”
Wales Air Ambulance chief executive Dr Sue Barnes said the milestone was a moment to reflect on how far the service had come.
She said: “When the service launched in 2001, it was one aircraft. Today, it is a truly national service, operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It is a transformation that has helped save countless lives and touched not just patients but their families.”
Dr Barnes said the charity’s development had only been possible because of public support across Wales.
She added: “The charity’s evolution is all the more remarkable because it is powered by a nation of just over three million people. A small country, with a huge heart. So, as we mark this milestone, we do so with pride and gratitude.
“For everyone who has given their time, expertise, commitment and support, thank you.
“This service belongs to the people of Wales. We are your air ambulance, and we exist because of you.”
The gala included fundraising activities and a live auction, with exclusive experiences and prizes donated in support of the charity.
The event was sponsored by Ascona Group, Gama Aviation, Bibado and Redkite Solicitors.
Wales Air Ambulance said the anniversary was not only a celebration of the past 25 years, but also a reminder of the continued need for support to ensure crews can reach more patients across Wales when they need help most.
