We are proud to reach a huge milestone this Summer, 30 years of lifesaving service are to be celebrated at two family-friendly events, the first of which is to be held at Bideford Rugby Football Club on Sunday 10 July, 10am-4pm.

The event marks 3 decades and over 30,000 missions bringing advanced, time-critical care to communities across Devon and is a perfect time for the charity not only to reflect on the past 30 years but also share what the future holds.

Every day, crews are carried to attend the critically ill and injured by the charity’s two aircraft, and – since 2020 - its two Critical Care Cars joined the fleet to support the service when adverse weather, aircraft repairs, or landing opportunities do not allow the aircraft to fly.

As a charity that is 100% independent of government funding, the service is made possible entirely thanks to the support of the communities it serves. That is why July’s celebration is the perfect occasion on which to thank and welcome supporters to participate in a range of family-friendly activities.

What is happening at Bideford RFC?

There will be an opportunity for visitors to meet members of the Devon Air Ambulance crew and to take part in a lifesaving CPR & defibrillator training masterclass delivered by a team of advanced paramedics in critical care.

Visitors can tour the Helicopter which will be operating from Bideford for the day, and chat to the pilot and crew. There will also be a chance to see close-up the Volvo XC90 rapid response, blue light, critical care car.

Don’t miss the Evolution of Devon Air Ambulance exhibit and follow the story of Devon Air Ambulance by taking part in a family audio treasure trail activity, where participants have the chance to be entered into a prize draw to win a suite of beautiful children’s books. The Devon Air Ambulance retail team is also running a pop-up shop where visitors can browse a wonderful range of donations.

Members of the DAA patient liaison team will also be available to chat about your experience of Devon Air Ambulance or that of a family member, all in a beautiful setting where refreshments will be available throughout the day.

The jolly sounds of sea shanty singers, Anchors Aweigh, will be keeping everyone entertained, they have been supporting Devon Air Ambulance for many years and have raised several thousands of pounds for the charity.

Charlotte Leventis, Head of Communications at Devon Air Ambulance says:

We’re very much looking forward to our Bideford event, the first of two community celebrations this summer. It’s a great way to invite supporters to engage more closely with our work, and potentially learn some lifesaving skills at the same time. It’s our kind supporters that make our service possible and we want to celebrate that. There’s no need to book, just turn up for a fun – and different - day out for all the family.

Long-time corporate supporter, Bridge Motorcycles, is supporting the celebrations with sponsorship, and will also have a presence at the event.

The second 30th Anniversary celebration will be held on Saturday 13 August, 10am to 4pm, at Darts Farm just outside Exeter and will also include lots to see and do. For more information about what’s happening at this event

See how we're celebrating 30 years