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Midlands Air Ambulance Charity
Midlands Air Ambulance Charity welcomed influential business leaders from across the region to an exclusive networking and fundraising event at Birmingham’s highest restaurant, 24stories, in celebration of the charity’s 35th anniversary year.
Held on Thursday 4th June, the Chairs’ Supper, delivered in partnership with Debrett’s Private Finance, brought together senior figures from the business community for an unforgettable evening overlooking the Birmingham skyline. The spectacular setting reflected the unique perspective Midlands Air Ambulance Charity’s critical care crews experience daily while responding to lifesaving missions across the Midlands.
Hosted by broadcaster and Deputy Lieutenant, Ed James, guests enjoyed an evening of networking, fundraising and inspiring stories, while learning more about the charity’s impact over the past 35 years.
Attendees heard from Hanna Sebright, Chief Executive Officer of Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, Keith Marriot, Chair of Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, and Darryl Eales, Chair of Debrett’s Private Finance, who reflected on the importance of collaboration between the charity and the business community in helping to sustain the organisation’s lifesaving service.
With only around one in four UK businesses actively supporting charities, according to the 2025 report by the Charities Aid Foundation (CAF), the event highlighted the vital role that engaged corporate partners play in sustaining essential services such as Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, which receives no routine government or National Lottery funding for its daily operations.
One of the evening’s most powerful moments came from former patient Lisa Challinor, who shared her personal story of survival and recovery following a life-changing accident. Lisa spoke about how a routine morning walk with her dogs before a planned London Marathon training run resulted in serious injuries and highlighted the critical role Midlands Air Ambulance Charity played in her treatment.
The event also featured an exclusive charity auction with a once-in-a-lifetime bespoke helicopter experience for two, generously donated by Midlands Air Ambulance Charity’s aviation partner, Babcock. The unique prize offered guests the rare opportunity to step behind the scenes of air ambulance operations, meet the experts behind the missions and enjoy an unforgettable day in the air.
Thanks to the generosity of attendees, the event raised just under £40,000 to support the charity’s future lifesaving missions across the region.
Hanna Sebright, Chief Executive Officer of Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, said: “The Chairs’ Supper was a fantastic opportunity to bring together leaders from across the Midlands to celebrate our 35th anniversary and showcase the impact of our lifesaving service. The support we have received from our guests, partners and sponsors has been incredible. Events such as this not only help raise vital funds but also strengthen the relationships that enable us to continue providing enhanced pre-hospital emergency care to those who need it most.
“While only around 25% businesses in the UK actively support charities, there is huge potential for more organisations to get involved and make a difference. By working together, the business community can play a powerful role in sustaining lifesaving services like Midlands Air Ambulance Charity."
Darryl Eales, Chair of Debrett’s Private Finance, added: “We are proud to support Midlands Air Ambulance Charity and to bring together business leaders who recognise the importance of investing in their communities. The work of the charity is truly lifesaving, and it is vital that the business community plays its part in ensuring it can continue to operate at the highest level.”
Midlands Air Ambulance Charity operates and funds three air ambulances and a fleet of critical care cars covering Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, Shropshire, Staffordshire, Worcestershire and the West Midlands. Each mission is funded entirely by donations and public support, with no funding from the Government or National Lottery for its daily operations.
As the charity continues to mark its 35th anniversary throughout 2026, supporters are encouraged to get involved in upcoming events and fundraising initiatives to help ensure its lifesaving service remains available for future generations.