Published: 24 January 2024

The Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) annual farmhouse breakfast week has raised an incredible £17,509 for the Wales Air Ambulance Charity.

The hugely popular fundraiser saw members of FUW hold over 35 breakfast events during 15 to 21 January 2024. Members and politicians were treated to a delicious, nutritious and sustainable breakfast, whilst catching up on farming matters with FUW staff and officials.

Dr Sue Barnes, Wales Air Ambulance Charity Chief Executive, said: “Our heartfelt thanks go to the FUW and its members who are raising funds for, and awareness of, our charity.

“We are acutely aware of how important our service is for the rural and agricultural communities of Wales. As a pan-Wales service, we aim to deliver the best possible lifesaving care across our country, however, at the same time recognising the differing needs of our rural and urban communities.

“Our charity is working hard to ensure our vital work can continue, not just for the here and now, but for our future generations. Our commitment and connection to rural Wales is, and always will be, incredibly strong.

“We also recognise and give thanks for the invaluable contribution that the farming community makes to Welsh society, as well as the quality produce that is enjoyed here in Wales and around the world.”

Breakfast is one of the most important meals of the day and the fundraiser was a great opportunity to talk and share thoughts before starting the day, whilst improving people’s mental health.

The FUW’s farmhouse breakfast week also provided an opportunity to promote the quality premium local produce that farmers grow for us every day of the year.

FUW President Ian Rickman said: “We have enjoyed another successful breakfast week and I thank all the staff, members, volunteers and our politicians across Wales for their incredible support. Together we have raised an incredible amount of money for this very important charity that saves lives across Wales every single day. 

“In addition to raising an incredible amount of money for the Wales Air Ambulance, we were also able to highlight the crucial role our farmers play in keeping the wheels of our rural economy turning and showcasing the wide reach our industry has. We must not forget all the reasons why farming matters - in an economic, environmental, social and cultural sense.

“Without a thriving farming industry, which ensures there is food on our tables that we can afford, our future and that of our children would certainly be a bleak one.”

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.