£1m appeal to replace air ambulances

Powys could get a new generation air ambulance through a special £1 million appeal to revamp an existing fleet of helicopters based at Welshpool airport.

Wales Air Ambulance must replace its existing fleet of helicopters next year to comply with Civil Aviation Authority legislation.

It would mean a new model air ambulance based at Welshpool airport to cover the mid Wales area as well as new helicopters for north and south Wales.

The charity will stage a spectacular landing of the New Generation helicopter at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff on Wednesday, to mark the start of Air Ambulance week.

Sporting and entertainment celebrities will be at the stadium to see the New Generation helicopter land on the pitch. They include Welsh rugby legends JJ Williams, Barry John, JPR Williams, John Dawes, Mervyn Davies and Paul Thorburn.

Chairman of the charity, Bob Palmer, said: “These aircraft are faster, more powerful and have a greater lifting capacity; and most importantly allow far greater access to the patient whilst airborne.

“We are indebted to the Millennium Stadium for providing this fantastic venue to allow us to demonstrate a new generation helicopter.

“The charity is wholly dependent on fundraising, and with the continued support from the people of Wales we are hoping to achieve our target and be in a position to announce the date of implementation of these helicopters to further enhance the services provided to the Principality.”

Wales Air Ambulance Week will highlight the ongoing £1 million appeal, with a Bring £1 to Work scheme, asking businesses to simply make their £1 contribution collectively at their place of work.