Llandudno is gearing up for another ‘fun-filled’ and ‘colorful’ Goldwing Light Parade in aid of Wales Air Ambulance.
The event has helped raise an incredible £14.6k for the Charity over the years.
“Wales Air Ambulance is close to the heart of most bike riders”, said Chairman Zenon ‘Sid’ Wozniak. “We hope our event shines a light on the incredible lifesaving service and raises lots of money.
“Many people do not realise that it relies on supporters to help fundraise, that is why it is so important that we do all we can to help raise awareness.”
He says everyone taking part feels a ‘deep sense of pride’ and added: “To be able to play a small part in ensuring that the service can be there for the people of Wales, is the greatest gift you can give.”
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.
‘The Goldwingers’ have visited the air base and met crew members, on several occasions.
“It’s brilliant to visit spend time with the team”, says Sid, “they are always thoroughly appreciative of our riders, volunteers and marshals.
“It’s great to make that connection with the crew, it makes you more ambitious for the next year, and the next, to attract larger crowds. Hopefully that translates into bigger cheques for the Charity.”
Llandudno Goldwing Light Parade will take place on Saturday, 5 September 2026. With over 3,000 people expected to line the streets over the weekend.
Sid is ‘very grateful’ to have the support of the entire community. He said: “Local businesses play a big part in the event, providing a warm welcome to visitors.
“When I first started taking part in the event, there were a few hundred people lining the streets. But it has quadrupled, and the whole area is packed.”
With over 150 bikes taking part, the event also relies on volunteers to help street marshal.
“The local Lions are outstanding!”, Sid said. “They ensure everyone stays safe and we are very grateful for their support each year.”
The focal point of the whole event are the Goldwings and their riders. “They are the Rolls Royce of motorbikes”, according to Sid, due to their size and appearance.
“One-hundred-and-fifty of them will line the promenade over the weekend, taking up a lot of space. There is a lot of chrome, and gleaming paintwork.
“They are extremely quiet, the loudest thing with them is their radio and audio systems.”
The event attracts families, attracting the attention of young children due to the bright colourful lights and music.
“People spend months preparing for the weekend! Trying out different lights, until they get the desired effect. Everyone brings their own individual stamp and personality to the event.
“There used to be around a dozen events like this all over the UK each year, but they have decreased over the years, and we are one of the last remaining four, and I think one of the best!”
Elaine Orr, Wales Air Ambulance Regional Fundraising Manager said: “It’s a joy every year to join the Llandudno Goldwing Light Parade team on the promenade.
“This event is incredibly important to our Charity and has helped raise thousands of pounds over the years.
“The atmosphere is fantastic, and the bikes are incredible, if you have never been, it is worth a visit.
“We look forward to seeing everyone, for what promises to be a colourful event. Every pound raised will make a lifesaving difference. Diolch yn fawr!”
