Wiltshire and Bath Air Ambulance Charity celebrates record breaking 'Thankathon'

Thursday, 19 March 2026 10:14

Wiltshire and Bath Air Ambulance Charity has celebrated the success of its third Thankathon, reaching a record-breaking 1,759 supporters in a single day.

The annual event is dedicated to expressing gratitude to the people who make the lifesaving work possible. Without government funding, the Charity relies entirely on voluntary donations and support from local Wiltshire and Bath communities.

This year’s total significantly surpassed last year’s 1,072 contacts.

Throughout the day, staff, volunteers, and trustees personally connected with supporters through:
• 518 phone calls
• 1,172 handwritten cards
• 69 personal emails

Every message was delivered directly by those within the Charity, reflecting a shared commitment to recognising the vital role supporters play.

The Thankathon reached a wide range of individuals and groups, including donors, volunteers, corporate supporters, local schools, pubs and community groups, as well as those who give in memory of loved ones.

Adam Baker, director of communications and supporter engagement, explained, “With so much of modern life focused on asking for more, our Thankathon is deliberately different. It is a moment for us to show genuine appreciation to the individuals, businesses and communities who make our lifesaving work possible.

"Our staff, volunteers and trustees all came together for one day to say thank you for that support. Through phone calls, handwritten cards and personal emails, we managed to reach out to an amazing 1,759 supporters.

"If you are reading this and we didn't get round to you - thank you for your support, it means so much. Your support ensures we can continue to deliver leading edge critical care across Wiltshire and Bath, reaching anyone who needs us within minutes.”

In 2025, Wiltshire and Bath Air Ambulance Charity responded to 1,159 missions, including 283 cardiac emergencies, 181 road traffic collisions, and 273 medical incidents. The team also treated 130 children and carried out 413 missions at night.

By taking the time to personally thank supporters, the Charity continues to build a strong and connected community, ensuring it can be there for the people of Wiltshire and Bath when they need it most.