The region’s air ambulance raised a record amount at its annual ball, held this year to mark its 15th anniversary as an independent charity. Guests at the Air Angels Ball, held at the Hilton in Gateshead on Saturday night, helped raise £26,300 for the Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS). The amount is the most raised at GNAAS’ ball since the charity launched in its current form in 2002.
Ruth Davey, who organised the event, said: “We are blown away by the fundraising total.
The money will make a difference to people’s lives here in the region, so everyone involved should be proud. “A lot of work goes into making the event a success but we simply couldn’t do it without our volunteers, sponsors and all those who turned out, willing to donate their money to this good cause. “We aim to make this the Air Ambulance Ball Raised Record Amount North-East social event of the year, and we think this is a huge leap in the right direction.” Attendees were greeted to the event by ITV’s Pam Royle, a patron of the charity.
She welcomed former patients of GNAAS as well as aircrew members, local businesses and other supporters. They were treated to a dinner and dancing, with a live performance from the Lorraine Crosby Band. The money was raised through ticket sales, a raffle, and an auction of exclusive lots. A behind the scenes experience at BBC’s Match of the Day, courtesy of Alan Shearer, sold for the highest amount, with the lot receiving a top bid of £5,000. The date for next year’s event will be announced shortly. To avoid disappointment and to register your interest, please call 01325487263 or email info@greatnorthairambulance.co.uk
