A POPULAR Powys musical group have shown their gratitude to the Wales Air Ambulance by donating nearly £4,000 to the charity – without whom one member may not be here.
A pudding evening was held at Pantydwr Community Hall, near Rhayader, organised by the Radnor Twurzels and friends, and proved to be a great success, with a sell-out audience raising £3,820 for the Wales Air Ambulance.
As well as lots of tasty puddings being served, the event included a performance and raffle in aid of the lifesaving charity.
The Radnor Twurzels are from the Rhayader area and perform a range of comedy style songs for cabaret.
The fundraiser was organised because member Gareth Price needed the Wales Air Ambulance’s help after suffering a heart attack.
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“We wanted to raise money because I needed the service and without the Wales Air Ambulance I may not have survived,” said Gareth.
“I needed the use of the air ambulance after falling unwell in the very early morning when I had a heart attack at home and was conveyed to Cardiff’s Heath Hospital.
“I believe at the time no ambulance was readily available and action was required. Rhayader St John’s First Responders were in attendance.
“The evening was in the form of a concert with some other family members and friends taking part.
“We held a raffle and had tremendous prizes donated by many local businesses and individuals and also a staggering amount of homemade puddings by friends.”
This was the first time the Radnor Twurzels, who also include Jeff and Reg Evans, have raised money for the Wales Air Ambulance. When they first came up with the idea they hoped to raise £1,500, but they were completely overwhelmed at the amount raised in one night for the cause.
The trio visited the charity's Welshpool base to hand over the cheque, and they also enjoyed a tour of the premises.
Wales Air Ambulance community fundraiser manager, Laura Coyne, said: “The Radnor Twurzels and friends held a highly successful fundraiser for our cause after the charity’s medics came to the aid of one of its members.
“They personally know how important our service is and we are touched that they wanted to raise funds to show their appreciation.
“The event raised an incredible £3,820 for the Wales Air Ambulance in just one night. It sounds like it was a fantastic evening and really enjoyed by everyone who attended the event.
“Thank you to everyone who took part, attended the event, baked delicious puddings or donated prizes for the raffle. You have all played a part in helping us to continue serving the people of Wales and saving lives.”
The charity, which is funded by the people of Wales, relies entirely on donations to raise the £11.2 million every year to keep the helicopters in the air and rapid response vehicles on the roads across Wales.
The Wales Air Ambulance has attended over 48,000 missions and is on standby 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
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