Biking community raises vital funds for Air Ambulance NI at North West 200

Air Ambulance NI was designated charity partner for the Briggs Equipment North West 200 this year, a significant opportunity to collect and raise funds during this iconic event.

During the race week, May 5 to May 10, seventeen volunteers collected £12,343.79 for the cause, funds that will help potentially save the lives of three future patients. 

The charity partnership also involved a BBQ event in the hospitality marquee, which was gifted as part of the partnership, called Party at the Paddock which raised a further £20k, and an additional £4k from the auction of Glenn Irwin leathers, donated from Briggs Equipment.  As well as funds raised, this partnership with Briggs Equipment NW200 also raises awareness about the importance of the Helicopter Emergency Medical Service. 

Briggs Equipment North West 200 Event Director Mervyn Whyte MBE said: “We were proud to support Air Ambulance NI at this year’s Briggs Equipment North West 200. Between the street collection and Party at the paddock charity event, the response from fans, supporters and the public was fantastic.

"It’s a cause close to many, and we’re delighted to have played a part in raising vital funds, particularly as the HEMS was needed on two occasions during race week.”

Area Fundraising Manager for Air Ambulance NI, Katrina Hughes, commented: “We are deeply grateful to have been chosen as the charity for the Briggs Equipment NW200. Our heartfelt thanks go out to our volunteers and everyone who donated during race week. Air Ambulance NI has a strong bond with the biking community in Northern Ireland. Together, we are making a significant impact, and we are profoundly thankful for the support we have received, which will directly benefit local lives in our community”.

The charity Air Ambulance NI works in partnership with the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) to offer the HEMS in Northern Ireland. This service provides immediate medical assistance to patients who are critically ill or injured, delivering emergency pre-hospital care directly to the scene with the goal of saving lives, preserving brain function, and protecting limbs. Air Ambulance operates every day for twelve hours.

The aircraft can reach any location in Northern Ireland in about twenty-five minutes. On average, the team of doctors and paramedics is called out twice daily, responding to various emergencies such as serious road traffic collisions, farm and workplace accidents, sports and leisure incidents, or critical medical situations, among others.

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Air Ambulance NI is further appealing to the local community to take on an abseil challenge at Roe Valley Country Park, taking place on Saturday, September 20 2025.

This thrilling challenge not only promises an unforgettable experience but also plays a crucial role in raising funds for the life-saving services of Air Ambulance NI. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a first-time participant, your support makes a real difference. For more details and to register, please visit https://airambulanceni.org/roe-valley-abseil/