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Wales Ambulance Service has thanked the public for its ongoing support and said: “We can’t save lives without you.”

Air Ambulance Week 2023, which raises awareness of the lifesaving work carried out by air ambulance charities across the UK, is taking place between September 4 and September 10.

Dr Sue Barnes, Wales Air Ambulance chief executive, said: “We are the only dedicated air ambulance charity for Wales. For us, Air Ambulance Week has two aims. Firstly, it is to raise awareness of the vital lifesaving work that air ambulances undertake across the UK.

“Secondly, it is for us to recognise and thank all those who make our service possible. Without them, there would be no air ambulance service in Wales.

“This includes our employees, volunteers and trustees, as well as our NHS and aviation partners. Likewise, our incredible supporters across the country, who have taken Wales Air Ambulance to their hearts and shown overwhelming passion towards the charity and what we do.”

Dr Barnes continued: “On behalf of the charity, and all the patients we have attended over the past 22 years, I would like to thank each and every one of you. You are lifesavers.

“With your unwavering support, we will continue to maintain and improve our lifesaving service, which has become so critical for Wales.

“Our aim is, and always will be, to be there for you, wherever you are and whenever you need us.”

Since its inception in 2001, Wales Air Ambulance has attended more than 46,000 missions across the country.

It relies entirely on public donations to raise the £11.2 million it needs each year to maintain its four helicopters and fleet of rapid response vehicles.

Visit the Wales Air Ambulance website for more information on the service and how to support it.