PEMBROKE and District Male Voice Choir has struck a chord with supporters after raising more than £1,200 for Wales Air Ambulance during its 25th anniversary year.

The event at Tabernacle Church, Pembroke, on Friday, October 16, featured a memorable performance with renowned tenor Rhys Batt from Glyndebourne Opera Company.

Conducted by musical director Juliet Rossiter, who worked for Wales Air Ambulance for fifteen years, and accompanied by Rev’d William Lambert, the concert attracted music lovers from across the local community. Special thanks go to Nigel Phillips, compère for the evening.

The successful fundraiser generated more than £1,200 for the charity, helping it continue to deliver lifesaving emergency care whenever and wherever it is needed.

“We had an incredible evening celebrating Wales Air Ambulance’s 25th anniversary!” said Gareth Hopkins, Chorister with Pembroke and District Male Voice Choir.

“The concert was a fantastic celebration of music, community spirit and an opportunity to recognise the incredible work carried out by the Charity over the past 25 years.”

Since attending its first mission on 1 March 2001, Wales Air Ambulance has carried out more than 58,200 missions, bringing advanced critical care to patients across Wales. The charity relies on public donations to raise the £13 million required every year to keep the helicopters in the air and rapid response vehicles on the road.

The Emergency Medical Retrieval and Transfer Service (EMRTS) supplies highly skilled NHS consultants and critical care practitioners who work on board the charity’s vehicles. This advanced critical care includes the ability to administer anaesthesia, deliver blood transfusions and conduct minor operations, all at the scene of an incident.

Gareth, 84, who has been with the choir for 38 years, says the Charity holds a special place in many people’s hearts.

He continued: “A few years ago, Wales Air Ambulance saved the life of a friend’s husband. Every year, it provides lifesaving care to thousands of people. Our concert was the choir’s way of saying thank you for 25 years of service.”

Pembroke and District Male Voice Choir will be in concert as part of the Crib Festival on Friday, December 11, at St John's Church, Pembroke Dock.

Mike May, Regional Fundraising Manager for Wales Air Ambulance, said: “What a wonderful way to celebrate Wales Air Ambulance's 25th anniversary. Pembroke and District Male Voice Choir sang beautifully at Tabernacle Church.

“The evening was filled with fantastic music, community spirit and a shared appreciation for a service that has been there for the people of Wales for a quarter of a century.

“From the powerful performances of the choir to the outstanding contribution from Rhys Batt, it was a truly memorable occasion.

“It was heartwarming to see so many people come together to support our charity and recognise the impact the service has made over the past 25 years.

“Thank you, Pembroke and District Male Voice Choir, for helping us celebrate this special milestone in such a fitting way. Your generous donation will make a lifesaving difference. Diolch yn fawr.”