Cash threat to air ambulance (From Western Telegraph)

Cash threat to air ambulance

The Welsh air ambulance service may be under threat if public donations and sponsorship doesnt reach a £600,000 target.

The service, launched in Wales during March, has received only £70,000 so far towards running costs for its second year.

Current sponsorship from the AA ensures the service will keep running until March 2002.

The air ambulance has made 178 trips around Wales in the few months it has been in operation, and over 100 of those have been for the seriously ill.

Thirty-two trips have been made in Pembrokeshire alone.

Like its English counterparts, the service receives no government funding and relies entirely on generosity.

A recent plea on Swansea Sound has highlighted the appeal for more people to come forward with financial assistance.

Alison Watkins, public relations manager for the Welsh Ambulance Services NHS Trust, said: The worse case scenario is that it will be withdrawn, but this is not anticipated. English air ambulances are supported entirely by public donations and we hope it will be the same in Wales.

Donations can be made by calling 01792 552999, or at any Barclays Bank branch.