Man named volunteer of year for Midlands Air Ambulance

Marcus Watkin was involved in a motorbike crash 16 years ago and credits the charity with saving his life.

A car was driving on the wrong side of the road and Marcus was airlifted to hospital by Midlands Air Ambulance.

He spent a year in Oswestry Orthopaedic Hospital with serious injuries.

Despite his health issues, he regularly attends fundraising events for the charity, and enjoys visiting local schools and community groups in his area, talking about his accident.

He was named charity volunteer of the year at Midlands Air Ambulance charity’s seventh Recognition Awards and Charity Ball which took place on June 15, and raised more than £130,000 - which will fund 52 life-saving missions.

The event, which was led by TV and radio presenter, Vernon Kay, and ITN broadcaster, Nina Hossian, took place at The Vox Conference Centre, and is an annual celebration of the charity’s fundraisers, aircrew, volunteers and former patients.

Nine awards were handed out during the evening, recognising the hard work and dedication of Midlands Air Ambulance charity’s fundraisers, former patients and lifesaving aircrew.

Hanna Sebright, chief executive of Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, said: “It’s been another wonderful annual Recognition Awards and Charity Ball, only made possible with the generous support of our sponsors and guests.

“Funds raised will enable Midlands Air Ambulance charity to continue to develop our vital lifesaving service.”

Guests were treated to live entertainment throughout the evening from The Rat Pack Boys, The Chip Shop Boys and a DJ later on in the night. Celebrity supporters of the charity also made an appearance, including Will Mellor, Paul Chuckle, Gemma Atkinson and Gorka Marquez from Strictly Come Dancing, comedian Joe Lycett and a number of soap stars.

To find out more about how you can support Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, visit midlandsairambulance.com or on social media.