Air Ambulance volunteers honoured at Dudley ceremony

The event at the picturesque Dudley venue was attended by dozens of volunteers who have supported the charity over the past year.

Among those recognised were Jenny Ashman from Inkberrow in Worcestershire, who won the National Institute of Fundraising's Volunteer of the Year Award.

Also at the dinner Lynne Beckett, from Stourport on Severn, who was named eBay for Charity's Best UK Charity eBay seller.

Gina Constable from Shrewsbury was recognised for long service, having been with the charity since the start back in 1991, while sisters Yvonne Smart and Cathy Glear were also honoured.

They have knitted numerous items that have been sold at Russells Hall Hospital to raise funds.

Funded entirely by public donations, the MAA charity has relied on the generosity of the local community since its first mission was flown 24 years ago.

Head of fundraising Jason Levy said that although supporters raise the £6.5 million needed each year for the charity to remain operational, the amount of time donated by the 80-strong team of volunteers is considered just as valuable.

"It was great to see everyone at the luncheon and the atmosphere was fantastic," he added. "There were so many great achievements to celebrate - proving our volunteers really do go the extra mile for our charity.

"Without them, and the countless hours they all donate doing all sorts of work for the charity, we simply wouldn't be able to carry on saving lives and being at the heart of the community.

"We'd like to thank all of them for everything they do."

For details on volunteering opportunities with Midlands Air Ambulance Charity or to learn more about the life saving service visit midlandsairambulance.com