Air ambulance gets a £45k boost from Midlands Co-op

The Heart of England Co-operative Society’s food, non-food, travel and funeral services across Warwickshire, Coventry, south Leicestershire and Northamptonshire have been working hard over the past two years to raise the £45,785 they have now handed over to the air ambulance service.

Fundraising events have included a garden party, raffles, sales, theme nights and parties, while collections in stores and on the streets have also added to the total.

Ali Kurji, chief executive of the society, said: “Our staff have made a fantastic, consistent effort over the past couple of years, really embracing the challenge of adopting our first ever corporate charity and pulling together with customers and members in their communities to ensure the cash keeps coming in.

“I am proud of their efforts and thank each and every one of them for everything they have achieved.”

Andy Williamson, chief executive of the air ambulance service, said: “Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance is very honoured to have been chosen as the first formal charity partner for the Heart of England Co-operative and to have now had that relationship for two years means a great deal to us.

“It means that the staff of the company at all levels have actively engaged in our work and have approached their fundraising with enthusiasm, dedication and skill.

“The huge amount of money that has been raised makes a significant difference to the work we are able to carry out. t also gives everyone involved a huge morale boost knowing that the demanding and difficult emergency work we do is regarded so highly by people in our community.”

He added: “It is that kind of spirit and support that keeps us going every day through all weathers. My very sincere thanks go to Ali and his entire team for all they have and continue to do.”

The service, which celebrated its tenth anniversary last year, is a registered charity which attends on average three rescue missions every day across Warwickshire and Northamptonshire. Each mission costs an average of £1,700, which all comes from fundraising and donations.

To find out more, visit www.theairambulanceservice.org.uk/about-us/our-services/warwickshire-northamptonshire-air-ambulance