Welsh legend Max Boyce launches Wales Air Ambulance’s Summer Raffle, at the rugby ground the Charity had its first missions

The Wales Air Ambulance is delighted to launch its Summer Raffle with the support of Welsh legend Max Boyce.

The Glynneath singer, comedian and entertainer has been a supporter of the Charity since its inception after watching his friend’s grandson being airlifted to hospital following a rugby match at Glynneath RFC’s ground, in what was the Wales Air Ambulance’s first ever mission 22 years ago.

Therefore, it was only fitting, that Max kicked off the launch of the Summer Raffle back in Glynneath’s Abernant Park and is encouraging people to support the prize draw.

Raffle tickets will be sold from Thursday 25 May and will run for nine weeks, closing on Friday 28 July. The draw will take place on Tuesday 8 August and one lucky winner will win £3,000 with a second prize of £500 and third prize of £300.

Max said by supporting the Summer Raffle people could be helping to save lives whilst being in with a chance of winning a cash prize.

He said: “I am only too pleased to help promote the Summer Raffle as the Wales Air Ambulance is a Charity very near and dear to my heart. I have supported the Charity in the past and I will continue do so in the future as well.

“I have seen the good work the Charity has done over the years, and I have met some of the pilots and critical care practitioners. It is a wonderful cause that can help everyone. The service is a lifeline for many people and that is why everyone should support it. You never know when or where you are going to need it.”

“I hope that everyone will support this summer raffle because of the worthiness of the cause and there are some great prizes on offer. You could be helping to save someone’s life.”

The Wales Air Ambulance needs to raise £8 million every year to operate its lifesaving service and relies on generous donations from its loyal supporters.

Since its inception on March 1, 2001, the Charity has carried out more than 45,000 missions and provides vital 24/7 emergency cover for those who face life-threatening illness or injuries.

Past patient, Christine Lloyd, said she is indebted to the Wales Air Ambulance after the car she was travelling in was hit by a tractor, which left her fighting for her life.

She said: “The reassurance and hope I felt hearing the Wales Air Ambulance arrive on scene still brings me comfort to this day. I sustained several injuries, including an open fracture to my right arm, three broken ribs and a broken back – in several places. On top of this, I had a bleed on the brain and was suffering from a major internal bleed.

“The care that Wales Air Ambulance provided at the roadside not only saved my life but also provided me with the best possible chance. Without their quick response, dedication, and advanced equipment I wouldn’t be here today.”

The Wales Air Ambulance also helped save the life of Richard Jones, who had been travelling in his truck when he had a road accident resulting in catastrophic injuries including having his leg amputated.

The early and critical care the 34-year-old received from the Wales Air Ambulance crew undoubtedly saved his life. In a twist of fate, he met his partner Michaela, while in hospital, and the couple now have a son together, whom they have recently celebrated his first birthday.

Richard said: “The whole team at Wales Air Ambulance has inspired and given me so much. I am giving back in my own way, and I give peer support to others who have limb amputations.”
“I never really thought about the service before and never thought I’d end up needing their assistance. I was surprised to find out that, despite the amazing work they do, the Charity is solely funded by public donations.”

Christine added: “The Summer Raffle has the power to change the lives of even more people. Playing could keep another family together, just like mine.”

There are a number of ways in which you can support the Summer Raffle.  Tickets cost £1 and are available to purchase online via the charity’s website (walesairambulance.com/summerraffle). You can also purchase tickets from the Wales Air Ambulance charity shops, from staff and volunteers or at various fundraising events.

For more information or to play, please visit: https://www.walesairambulance.com/Event/play-our-summer-raffle