Cornwall Air Ambulance open day success

Almost 800 people flocked to Cornwall Air Ambulance’s open day at the weekend to see the helicopter, meet the crew and devour delicious cakes.

The popular event, held at the charity’s airbase HQ near Newquay, proved a hit for supporters of all ages who packed the hanger on a rainy Sunday 19 February.

Once inside, they got the chance to see the air ambulance helicopter up close and even sit inside, hearing first-hand from paramedics and the pilot about what it’s like to go on a Cornwall Air Ambulance mission.

The cake sale proved as popular as ever and saw queues of people forming for the chance to enjoy a delicious slice or three of homemade goodies, including carrot, ginger and chocolate cakes.

Beaming smiles accompanied a teddy pull throughout the day as children won cuddly toys. Youngsters also had the chance to showcase their creative talents at a colouring competition, while parents and grandparents bagged bargains at the pop-up charity shop and bric-a-brac tables.

People also learned about Cornwall Air Ambulance’s charity challenges, including the Tour de Cornwall – a three day bike ride through the county taking place in September.

Jackie Southon, Head of Income Generation at Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust, said: “It was a fantastic day and I’d like to thank everyone who came along and helped make it such a success. It was wonderful to open the doors and see so many happy faces genuinely enjoying themselves.

“The air ambulance is only able to fly over 700 lifesaving missions a year thanks to the generosity and support of the people of Cornwall, so it’s always very special to welcome them to the airbase and show everyone the good work their donations pay for.”