Staff at one of Wales’ largest transport providers have taken on an epic 800km endurance challenge in 21 hours for Wales Air Ambulance.
The team at Edwards Coaches are used to clocking up the miles as part of their day jobs running one of Wales’ leading transport operators. But some of the company’s sportier employees decided to put their endurance to the test in support of the lifesaving service.
The challenge is part of Edwards Coaches’ year-long charity partnership with Wales Air Ambulance.
Customers arriving at the Departure Lounge at Parc Busnes Edwards in Llantrisant on Friday, 11 September, could have been forgiven for thinking they had walked into a gym rather than a travel hub.
The space was transformed into an extreme challenge zone, where staff took turns running, cycling and rowing around the clock.
“What was fantastic to see was how many people got behind the challenge,” said Simon Ingham, Commercial Manager at Edwards Coaches.
“We had a core team of three taking part, but throughout, colleagues kept coming forward and asking if they could get involved.
“People were dipping in and out on the bike, rowing machine and treadmill to help us reach our 800km target.
“It really became a whole-company effort. Everyone understood the importance of what we were doing and wanted to support Wales Air Ambulance in some way.”
Simon, who is often office-based, pulled on his trainers and covered 5 kilometres though admits it’s just a drop in the ocean compared to the distances that some people achieved during the challenge. “There was a brilliant atmosphere throughout the day and night, and it felt great to play a part in something that brought so many people together for such an important cause.
“We’re incredibly proud of what was achieved and grateful to everyone who took part, donated or cheered us on.
“Every kilometre completed and every pound raised will help support the lifesaving work carried out by the Charity across Wales.”
Edwards Coaches is the official travel partner for Team Wales and, in the summer, supported athletes competing at the Commonwealth Games.
The company employs over 500 people across Wales and the South West of England, with its headquarters in Llantrisant and depots in Swansea, Bristol and Plymouth.
Among those leading the challenge was Meirion Jones, a Relief Controller, who coordinated a dedicated group of colleagues throughout the event.
The 51-year-old from Crosskeys, Newport, said: “We wanted to set ourselves a challenge that would really test our endurance while raising money for an amazing cause.
“There was definitely a competitive element to the event. Once we got going, everyone was spurring each other on and there was a real buzz throughout the challenge.
“There were certainly some tough moments, especially through the night, but the encouragement from colleagues and supporters kept us going. Every time someone stepped up to take a turn, it gave everyone a lift.
“We completed the challenge in just 21 hours, smashing our target by three hours. To achieve that as a team was an incredible feeling. The atmosphere was fantastic, everyone dug deep, and we’re immensely proud of what we accomplished together for Wales Air Ambulance.
“We are so thankful to the generosity of our sponsors and partners who gave us energy drinks and the like – they certainly helped us along the way!”
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.
It is delivered via a unique third-sector and public-sector partnership. The Wales Air Ambulance Charity relies on public donations to raise the £13 million required every year to keep the helicopters in the air and rapid response vehicles on the road.
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.
This advanced critical care includes the ability to administer anaesthesia, deliver blood transfusions and conduct minor operations, all at the scene of an incident.
As a pan-Wales service, its dedicated crews, regardless of where they are based, will travel the length and breadth of the country to deliver emergency lifesaving care.
In recognition of Edwards Coaches’ support, the company emblem will soon feature on one of Wales Air Ambulance’s aircraft.
Abi Pearce, Wales Air Ambulance Corporate Partnerships Manager, said: “We are hugely grateful to everyone at Edwards Coaches for their commitment, enthusiasm and determination.
“Taking on an 800-kilometre challenge in 21 hours is an incredible achievement and demonstrates the passion the team has shown throughout our partnership.
“The funds raised will help us continue delivering advanced critical care to people facing life-threatening emergencies across Wales.
“It’s inspiring to see a company bring so many colleagues together behind a shared goal, and we’d like to thank everyone who took part, donated and supported the event. Their efforts will help ensure our crews can continue bringing hospital-standard care to patients whenever and wherever it is needed.”
