One of Wales’ oldest riding clubs is pledging to fundraise for the Wales Air Ambulance Charity this year. 

Caernarfonshire Riding Club, which was formed back in the 1960s has organised a number of events in aid of the lifesaving service.

Linda Thomas, Treasurer, said: “When everyone heard who we were helping they were up for it and wanted to get involved. 

“We recently held a quiz night in Waunfawr at the Snowdonia pub which was well attended. We have also over the past few months held raffles and raised funds by selling tea and cake at our dressage event.

“We raised £200 which isn’t a lot I know but it all helps and hopefully over the next year we will be able to donate more.”

She added: “I think the air ambulance is very important because quite a few of our members over the years have had the experience of being airlifted to hospitals.

 

“It needs a lot of money to keep it running.”

Wales Air Ambulance is consultant-led, taking hospital-standard treatments to the patient and, if required, transferring them directly to the most appropriate hospital for their illness or injury. For the patient, this can mean hours saved when compared to standard care and is proven to greatly improve survival and early recovery.  

 

It is delivered via a unique Third Sector and Public Sector partnership. The Emergency Medical Retrieval and Transfer Service (EMRTS) supplies highly skilled NHS consultants and critical care practitioners who work on board the Charity’s vehicles.

 

The Wales Air Ambulance Charity relies on public donations to raise the £11.2 million required every year to keep the helicopters in the air and rapid response vehicles on the roadThe riding club, which has around 100 members, holds around 30 events each year, with summer shows, show jumping, cross-country and trips to venues like former Liverpool player Michael Owen’s Manor House Stables.

Linda recently visited the charity’s base in Caernarfon where she and club chair, Angela Williams, handed over a cheque to the crew.

She said: “We were shown around the helicopter and base, which was very, very interesting. We just didn’t realise how much equipment the teams must carry to go to the casualty. 

“It was very informative to meet the team and learn about the work they do. They are just fantastic, and it is so reassuring to know that they are there should the need arise.”

Wales Air Ambulance’s Head of Fundraising, Mark Stevens, said: “We are delighted to have this wonderful commitment from Caernarfonshire Riding Club – fundraising for us over the next 12 months.

“We never take for granted the kindness and generosity of those who help us hit our £11.2 million target to keep our all-Wales lifesaving service running.

“We want to save as many lives as possible and thanks to people like Linda, Angela and the riding club members we will be able to keep doing that for everyone, wherever you are in Wales.”