Park farmers raise more than £40,000 for Air Ambulance charity

A group of farmers from County Derry have raised more than £40,000 for the Air Ambulance charity.

The Park Farmers Group's annual charity tractor run held in August 2023 saw hundreds of tractors take part.

The event was held in memory of John Kerlin and Glenn Warnock, who both passed away in July 2022.

Both men, who were from the area, were associated with Park Farmers Group – John's son Sean is a member of the group while Glenn was a former chairman.

The families of John and Glenn chose Air Ambulance NI as the charity to benefit from the fundraiser.

Gareth Feeney, current chairperson of the organisation, which was established in the late 90s, was delighted to hand over a cheque for £40,500 to the charity at a presentation event held recently.

“We are absolutely delighted and deeply grateful to be able to raise a fantastic sum of money for a very worthy cause,” he said.

“This generous donation will make a significant impact in supporting Air Ambulance's life-saving missions and ensuring they can continue to provide critical care to those in need across Northern Ireland.

“A massive thank you to everyone involved in the event – the organisers, participants, volunteers, and supporters. Your dedication and hard work have truly made a difference.”

ABOVE: Committee members of Park Farmers Group pictured with the Kerlin and Warnock families handing over a cheque to a representative from Air Ambulance NI.

Kerry Anderson, Head of Fundraising at Air Ambulance NI, said the money raised by Park farmers will be used to fund the service for almost a week.

“On behalf of the entire team at Air Ambulance NI, a huge thank you to the organisers, families, sponsors, prize donors and participants on the day for your massive support,” she said.  

“It is wonderful that the community come together so well in memory of loved ones.  Air Ambulance is needed on average twice a day, attending to critically ill and injured patients, providing care at scene that can save lives. 

“The charity needs to raise £6,850 per day, the funds raised by Park Farmers will fund the service for almost a week, and could help save the lives of 12 people. It is only with continued public support that the service can continue. 

“Huge thanks to everyone involved, you should all be very proud, you have played a huge part in saving lives.”

Meanwhile, plans are currently underway to host the 2024 tractor run in Park village on Sunday, August 25.