Cornwall’s Air Ambulance team have been treated to a behind-the-scenes tour at Sharp’s Brewery, where they also raised a glass to the success of the New Heli Appeal and Sharp’s vital support.  

In addition to being the first major sponsor for the New Heli Appeal, with a donation of £10,000, the Rock-based brewery has supported the lifesaving charity for more than six years, providing beer for fundraising events and taking part in fundraising activity.

These include the Sharp’s team recently putting aside rivalry to play in a charity football match against St Austell Brewery, raising £150 through their mutual efforts.

The team also recently provided more funding through the Air Ambulance’s ‘bring a pound to work day’, with the business matching donations from staff to achieve a total of £202.

Earlier this year, a brewer from Sharp’s, Paddy Carter, leapt off a 160ft crane (in the safety of a harness) for an Air Ambulance fundraising bungee jump, on Porth Beach, Newquay.

The New Heli Appeal seeks to bring a next-generation Air Ambulance helicopter to Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly by April 2020, and the fund recently reached the £2m mark. However, there is still £484,881 left to raise.

‘Sharp’s has been a fantastic supporter of the New Heli Appeal’

Employees at Sharp’s have taken this local charity to their hearts, with a number of the team members revealing their own personal stories where they have had to rely on the rescue services of the Air Ambulance.

Cornwall Air Ambulance’s fundraising officer, Stephanie Bray said: “It was wonderful to be welcomed for a behind-the-scenes tour of Sharp’s Brewery, and get to know the company which has always generously supported our work over the years.

“Sharp’s has been a fantastic supporter of the New Heli Appeal, coming on board at the start as major partners to inspire our bigger corporate donations. We’re delighted to work with them in helping to bring the new Air Ambulance helicopter to Cornwall and we’d like to say a very big cheers to everyone at the brewery.

Marketing controller at Sharp’s Brewery, James Nicholls, added: “We are extremely proud to have been the first major appeal partner for the Cornwall Air Ambulance’s New Heli Appeal, and we always see the same spirit and passion amongst their dedicated team as we feel here at Sharp’s.

“The Cornwall Air Ambulance is so vital to the Cornish resident community and visitors alike, and everyone in our team here is delighted to be part of the appeal to raise funds and save even more lives.”