Four lifelong friends are preparing to take on a 200-mile vintage tractor journey to support Wales Air Ambulance after an inspiring visit to the charity's base. Martin Beynon, Iwan Hall, Arwel James, and Brian Richards met with frontline crew members to learn about their lifesaving work.
Behind the Scenes at the Airbase
The group visited the Wales Air Ambulance headquarters in Dafen, where they saw the emergency helicopter and medical equipment up close. They were deeply moved after speaking with the medical team about how rapid care is delivered during local emergencies. Martin, who completely restored his 73-year-old Ferguson tractor for the summer journey, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, saying he was amazed by the incredible level of skill and care demonstrated by the dedicated emergency workers.
Martin said: "We are so grateful to the Wales Air Ambulance crew for making time to meet us and talk about their lifesaving service. It really hits home, when you hear about the types of jobs that they attend."
He added: "The skill and professionalism, and the level at which they operate is truly outstanding. When you get inside the helicopter and see the kit, they carry you appreciate their capabilities so much more."
Life-Saving Equipment and Onboard Capabilities
During the tour, the friends were shown the LUCAS device, which carries out mechanical chest compressions for those suffering a cardiac arrest. The team also explained how they carry blood onboard and are able to administer blood transfusions at the scene. Martin described the whole experience as "unbelievable" and said the group feels "absolutely privileged" to be helping support such a fantastic service through their tractor run.
The Wales Air Ambulance relies on public donations to raise £13 million every year to keep its vehicles running. Expert NHS consultants travel across the country on board to deliver urgent treatments directly at the scene.
Rural Impact and Personal Tribute
Local farmer Brian Richards highlighted how important the service is for people living and working in rural areas. He explained that hearing the crew's real stories gave the group a much deeper appreciation of their daily impact. Brian said: "Living in a rural community we hear all the time about people needing the service. Coming to the base and hearing the stories, really helped us all have a better understanding of the work being done."
He recounted: "We were talking to the team one minute, and the next a call came in, and they were off. It was unbelievable to see how swiftly they sprang into action. It is so reassuring to know that they are there for the people of Wales, especially those of us working with livestock and equipment every day."
The fundraising challenge holds deep personal meaning for the friends as they prepare to set off together. They are undertaking the journey in memory of their dear friend Alun Richards, who sadly passed away last year. Arwel said: "We are so lucky to be able to play a small part in raising funds for Wales Air Ambulance. This is meaningful for us on two fronts; we want to raise as much as we can for the service as it marks its 25th anniversary."
He added: "But on a personal note, too, back in 1988, we all did a road trip to the Young Farmers AGM in Bournemouth. Our good friend Alun Richards was part of the gang, who joined us on that journey. Sadly, he died last year, so this is a tribute to him too, we’ll be reflecting on the good times."
Slow Travel and Community Support
Fencing contractor Iwan Hall mentioned that traveling at 12 miles per hour will give the friends plenty of time to catch up. He hopes passing drivers will show patience and cheer them on as they travel along the route. Iwan said: "It’s great for us to all get back together on the old Fergie and do something for such a great cause. We’ve known each other for such a long time, it’s hard to comprehend where the years have gone. But we’ll have plenty of time to reminisce on the road, as we’ll only be travelling at around 12 miles per hour."
He added: "We hope the motorists will be patient with us on the trip. I am sure they’ll all get behind us, when they realise that we are fundraising for Wales Air Ambulance."
Charity representative Christian Sullivan praised the group for their wonderful fundraising efforts and community spirit. He shared how delighted the team was to host the friends and give them a closer look at the helicopter. Christian said: "What a joy to welcome the Fergie Boys to our Dafen airbase. Our crew thoroughly enjoyed giving them a tour of the helicopter and demonstrating some of the kit they use."
He continued: "It’s so important for our supporters to be able to see the service up close, and we are always delighted to support engagements like this. As a charity, we rely heavily on our fundraisers to be our community champions. They help us raise awareness and ensure that we are always there for the people of Wales. Every pound raised makes a lifesaving difference! And we are hugely grateful to all those who have donated so far to this unique tractor run."
