The Farmers' Union of Wales (FUW) is once again throwing its support behind the Wales Air Ambulance Charity, with a series of community breakfasts set to take place across the nation this January. Farmhouse Breakfast Week, an annual initiative that unites rural communities over a hearty meal, marks the first major fundraising drive of the year for the lifesaving service.
A Partnership Rooted in Community Support
FUW President Ian Rickman has selected the Wales Air Ambulance as his chosen charity for the period 2023 to 2026. This year's breakfast events officially kickstart this significant partnership, underscoring the crucial role of supporting emergency services that cover the entire Welsh landscape. More than twenty individual events are scheduled in venues ranging from local community halls and chapels to farm kitchens and cafes, celebrating local Welsh produce while gathering funds for both local and national charitable causes.
Ian Rickman highlighted the importance of the week, especially during a challenging time for farmers. "January can be a difficult month with short days, cold weather, and plenty of work on the farm," he said. "Farmhouse Breakfast Week offers a perfect opportunity for farmers, friends, and our rural communities to come together, share the load, and enjoy a hearty breakfast." He extended a warm welcome to everyone to join the events, which he hopes will successfully celebrate local produce and raise essential funds.
Fueling a Lifesaving Service
The fundraising target is critical. The Wales Air Ambulance Charity needs to raise £13 million annually to maintain its fleet of helicopters and rapid response vehicles. The service is consultant-led, delivering hospital-standard care directly to patients and, if necessary, transporting them to the most appropriate hospital. This advanced critical care includes administering anaesthesia, blood transfusions, and conducting minor operations at the scene.
Dr Sue Barnes, Chief Executive of the Wales Air Ambulance, expressed her gratitude for the FUW's support. "Farmhouse Breakfast Week is a wonderful way to reconnect with friends and truly welcome in 2026!" she said. The charity will mark its 25th anniversary on March 1, 2026. "We are so grateful to all our supporters who have been part of our journey," Dr Barnes added, calling the charity "a Welsh success story created by the people of Wales, for the people of Wales."
Events Across Wales
The week boasts a strong record of community generosity. In 2025, the initiative raised over £13,500 for the air ambulance. This year's events are spread across the country, including:
- Caernarfon: Saturday, January 17, 8am - Noon at Canolfan y Fron.
- Carmarthen: Friday, January 23, 8am - 11am at The Forest Arms, Brechfa.
- Ceredigion: Tuesday, January 20, 8am - 11.30am at La Calabria, Ffostrasol.
- Glamorgan: Thursday, January 15, 6.30pm at Pencoed Rugby Club, Bridgend.
- Pembrokeshire: Friday, January 23, 8.30am - 11am at Pelcomb Inn, Haverfordwest.
The week is supported by FUW Insurance Services Ltd. Its Chair, Ann Beynon OBE, stated: "Rooted at the heart of rural communities, our business is proud to help bring people together to celebrate exceptional local Welsh produce... The week perfectly showcases the strength and spirit of rural Wales - all over a plate of breakfast."
