MBE Award for Cornwall Air Ambulance’s Vice-President

Cornwall Air Ambulance’s Vice-President, Barbara Sharples, has been awarded a prestigious MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) following her outstanding service within the charity sector over many years.

Barbara, who initially served as a trustee for Cornwall Air Ambulance from 2017, was then appointed the Chair of the New Heli Appeal board which raised a staggering £2.9 million towards the cost of purchasing the charity’s first AW169 helicopter. She also founded and was an active member of the charity’s London Committee which engages with supporters outside of the county with connections to Cornwall.

Barbara also launched Cornwall Air Ambulance’s ambassador programme, introducing celebrity ambassadors including Richard Madeley and Judy Finnigan who are passionate supporters of the charity. Barbara has since been appointed Vice President of Cornwall Air Ambulance and is also the founder and Chair of the Philanthropy Forum, which comprises high profile fundraisers who generate around £400,000 each year for Cornwall Air Ambulance. 

As part of the 2025 New Year’s Honours list, the MBE title acknowledges the achievement or service of an individual in and to the community which is outstanding in its field and has delivered sustained and real impact, standing out as an example to others.

Cornwall Air Ambulance’s Chief Executive, Tim Bunting said: “We are absolutely delighted that Barbara has been awarded an MBE. She has worked tirelessly not only for Cornwall Air Ambulance but also for many other businesses and charities at a senior level over many years. Everyone who knows Barbara will be aware of her outstanding commitment and dedication to Cornwall Air Ambulance. She has been instrumental in not only raising huge amounts of money for the charity over many years, but also in campaigning and raising awareness and bringing together many people to become key supporters of Cornwall Air Ambulance.

“Without Barbara’s incredible dedication, we would never be in the position that we are today of being within touching distance of owning not only one, but two AW169 helicopters. Barbara has been driven by her desire to see the charity supporting as many patients as possible who are facing a life-threatening illness or injury. I would like to thank Barbara on behalf of everyone connected with Cornwall Air Ambulance. We are so grateful for everything she has done for the charity.”

In response to her award, Barbara said: “The greatest honour is to serve a charity you are passionate about, and able in some small way to make a difference. To serve a life saving charity, where every minute can make the difference, is incredibly rewarding. I am delighted that receiving an MBE has shone a light on the charities I love and the work they do, the amazing teams, crew and volunteers. I share this honour with each of them. We have all worked shoulder to shoulder to make a difference. I have always been incredibly proud to represent Cornwall Air Ambulance and thank them for their faith and belief in me.”

She added: “I appreciate and have been so overwhelmed by the kind response of so many people who have taken the time to congratulate me on my MBE either personally or on social media. I am extremely grateful for all the warm response that I have received.”

In addition to her time with Cornwall Air Ambulance, Barbara has previously worked as an experienced International executive, working at board level to launch new businesses and to lead, inspire and challenge large established organisations.

Barbara has also previously been instrumental with other charities including the Children on the Edge charity. Barbara has additionally worked for many private companies including as a managing director with The Body Shop PLC and with Dorling Kindersley Publishing.