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27th February 2018

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Wales Air Ambulance custom-built airbase and headquarters have officially been opened by HRH The Prince of Wales.

HRH visited the Charity HQ and South Wales airbase in Dafen, Llanelli on Friday 23 February and met Doctors, staff, volunteers and supporters of Wales Air Ambulance.

WAA CEO Angela Hughes said: “It was an honor to welcome His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales to Dafen on Friday. This visit is particularly symbolic as HRH helped launch the charity in 2001 and it means so much to everyone here having HRH back 17 years later." 

During the royal visit, the Prince of Wales also met two young patients who have been helped by Wales Air Ambulance. Curtis Thomson (aged 4) and Cian Evans (aged 3) presented HRH with jars of honey from the Dafen area.

Curtis’ mother Nikki Thomson said: “It was fantastic to be a part of this very special day. We can’t thank Wales Air Ambulance enough for what they have done for Curtis. He thoroughly enjoyed meeting The Prince of Wales and it’s an experience we’ll never forget.”

Before unveiling a plaque and officially opening the building His Royal Highness made a short speech thanking staff and volunteers and congratulating the charity on 17 successful years.

WAA Trustee Mark James said: “Today was a very special day for us at Wales Air Ambulance. I remember His Royal Highness’ first visit in 2001. To see the progress that has been made in 17 years is incredible. We wouldn’t be where we are today without the help of our dedicated volunteers, supporters, and staff.”

Angela added: “We are very grateful to still be here 17 years later and would like to thank the people of Wales for taking us into their hearts and supporting us. We look forward to a successful future for Wales Air Ambulance.”