Swansea Volunteer Honoured for Decades of Air Ambulance Service
A dedicated volunteer from Swansea has been celebrated for his unwavering commitment to a vital lifesaving charity. Graham Hirst, aged 86, was among the distinguished recipients at the High Sheriff of West Glamorgan Awards 2026, held recently at the Waterfront Church in SA1.
Heartfelt Recognition for a Humble Volunteer
Graham attended the ceremony with his daughter Nichola, who expressed immense pride in her father's achievements. Reflecting on the honour, Graham shared his surprise and humility. "It has felt wonderful to be part of such a lovely event, but I am one of many volunteers who support Wales Air Ambulance, day in and day out," he said. "I didn't expect anything like this for what I do. I do it because I enjoy it, I get a lot of satisfaction out of supporting this incredible life-saving service."
He added, "I was quite surprised to receive this award. I am a backroom boy, and happy with that." Nichola noted that the event was emotional, with "a few tears" shed as she watched her father walk to the podium. She remarked, "An award ceremony is probably one of the last places you would expect to see my dad. He does what he does because he loves it, it keeps him busy, and to be honest I think it really keeps him young."
A Lifetime of Service and Personal Resilience
Graham's journey with the Wales Air Ambulance began after a varied career that included serving as an engineer in the Merchant Navy and working as a foreman for Alcoa for thirty years. He started by driving a van from the Swansea warehouse and helped fit out the charity's first shop. Today, he is often found at the Dafen headquarters, diligently sorting collection boxes.
His voluntary work has provided solace and purpose, especially after the passing of his wife Vera six years ago. Graham explained, "For the first 11 years I had the full support of my wife Vera. She sadly passed away six years ago, and since then besides me helping the charity, it has helped keep me occupied." Nichola echoed this sentiment, saying, "Since her passing, I think his voluntary work has kept him going and given him a purpose."
High Praise from Community Leaders
Diana Stroia, the High Sheriff of West Glamorgan appointed in 2025, praised Graham's contributions. "For nearly two decades, Graham - known to many in Swansea for his trademark cowboy hats and ever-present smile - has been at the heart of volunteering for the Wales Air Ambulance Charity," she said. "He has supported the charity from the early days, and his commitment has seen him undertake many roles."
She highlighted how volunteering has given Graham purpose during difficult times, adding, "He is, quite simply, irreplaceable, an outstanding example of dedication and community service. Congratulations on this very well-deserved recognition."
Charity's Gratitude for a Stalwart Supporter
Representatives from the Wales Air Ambulance Charity, including Chief Executive Dr Sue Barnes, were present to honour Graham. Dr Barnes said, "Graham is one of our longest service volunteers and is outstanding! We are all so proud of him, he really is such a stalwart of the charity." She described him as a familiar, upbeat presence at the Dafen headquarters.
Dr Barnes added, "Graham gives so much to charity, but I know he gets a lot from what he does too. As he puts it: 'When I see that helicopter go up… we are part of that.' It's wonderful to see him honoured in this way, for his dedication to our lifesaving service."
This award underscores the vital role volunteers play in supporting emergency services and enriching local communities across West Glamorgan.
