His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales has praised the Wales Air Ambulance Charity’s lifesaving impact after joining supporters to mark its 25th anniversary. The Charity’s Royal Patron attended a special Gala Dinner on June 26, which brought together volunteers, patients, crew members, partners and supporters. Hosted by television and radio presenter Jason Mohammed, the landmark event celebrated a quarter of a century of delivering critical care across Wales.
Growth from Humble Beginnings
Over the past 25 years, the service has grown from a single aircraft operating limited hours into a nationwide, 24/7 operation delivering advanced, hospital-standard care. Crews now have access to four aircraft and a fleet of rapid response vehicles to reach people on roadsides, homes, mountainsides and coastlines. The Charity has attended more than 57,000 missions, providing lifesaving treatment in some of the most challenging circumstances imaginable.
Prince's Tribute
Speaking at the event at the Celtic Manor in Newport, His Royal Highness paid a warm tribute to the service and the dedicated people behind it. The Prince of Wales said: “For 25 years, Wales Air Ambulance has provided a vital service to people and communities across Wales. In life-threatening moments, its crews have brought advanced critical care directly to those in greatest need, offering help and hope. Wales Air Ambulance has earned an international reputation for the service it delivers, and for its commitment to evidence-based decision-making that helps ensure the best possible care for the people of Wales.”
Patient Stories and Fundraising
The glittering evening featured powerful patient stories and fundraising activities, including a live auction offering exclusive experiences and prizes. The special night was made possible thanks to its main corporate sponsors, including Ascona Group, Gama Aviation, Bibado and Redkite Solicitors. Guests listened to a deeply moving account from former patient Alan Owen, who survived a serious cardiac arrest in April 2022. After collapsing while playing walking football, Alan was without a heartbeat for eight minutes before being revived by people around him. Air ambulance clinicians provided advanced critical care at the scene, stabilising his condition and coordinating the treatment that ultimately saved his life.
Alan said: “There is no doubt in my mind that without the Wales Air Ambulance, I would not be standing here today. Their trauma is different, but no less real. I have been given more time. Time with my family. Time that I would not have had without this charity.”
Chief Executive Reflects on Transformation
Earlier in the evening, chief executive Sue Barnes reflected on the incredible journey and transformation of the service since its launch in 2001. Sue said: “When the service launched in 2001, it was one aircraft. Today, it is a truly national service, operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It is a transformation that has helped save countless lives and touched not just patients but their families. The Charity’s evolution is all the more remarkable because it is powered by a nation of just over three million people. A small country, with a huge heart. So, as we mark this milestone, we do so with pride and gratitude. For everyone who has given their time, expertise, commitment and support, thank you. This service belongs to the people of Wales. We are your air ambulance, and we exist because of you.”
Fundraising Success
Thanks to the immense generosity of guests, the Gala raised an incredible £180,000 to help the charity look confidently toward the future.
