Two friends from Llanrhaeadr-ym-Mochnant have raised over £2,000 for Wales Air Ambulance, helping to fund the charity’s lifesaving missions by hosting a fundraising bash.

Mark Evans and Johnny Morris held an event in the Powys village, celebrating Mark’s 50^th birthday and raising donations for Wales Air Ambulance.

Friends and family gathered to the charity event, enjoying a live local band and a hog roast to raise donations for the Welsh helicopter charity.

Mark asked guests to donate to Wales Air Ambulance in lieu of birthday presents, and Johnny also added to these donations by completing a sponsored beard shave.

Johnny’s beard, which reached nearly to his waist, was shaved by Llanrhaeadr hairdresser Rhian Howells-Ellis in front of the crowd of more than 300 people.

Through the fundraising event, the friends raised £2,380 for Wales Air Ambulance, helping to fund the charity’s emergency medical helicopter missions across Wales.

Mark Evans said: "It was a fantastic night - everyone enjoyed themselves and we are really happy with the donation we have been able to make to Wales Air Ambulance.

“Everyone has been so generous and we would like to thank all those who supported this event."

Wales Air Ambulance needs to raise £6.5 million every year to funds its operations, with each of its missions costing around £1,500. The friend’s fundraising event will fund more than one of WAA’s missions, to help the charity fly to the aid of the people of Wales in their hour of need.

The friends presented their donation to the crew at the Wales Air Ambulance airbase in Welshpool.

Anna Evans, Wales Air Ambulance Fundraising Manager, said: “We would like to say a huge thank you to Mark and Johnny for their outstanding support.

“By hosting the birthday fundraiser, and by completing the sponsored beard shave, the friends have raised an amazing amount for Wales Air Ambulance.

“Their donations will go on to help save lives across Wales.”