THE Wales Air Ambulance attended 3,544 life and limb-threatening emergencies in 2021, figures have revealed.

It brings the total number of missions undertaken since the charity’s inception in 2001 to over 41,000.

The charity, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary, received 3,544 calls during 2021.

1,870 of the calls attended were by air and 1,674 by road in one of its Rapid Response Vehicles.

1,540 of the incidents were medical-related while the remaining 2004 were linked to trauma.

Further analysis reveals 372 patients treated were 17 years old or under.

Now operational 24/7, the charity needs to raise £8 million every year to keep the helicopters in the air and our Rapid Response Vehicles on the road.

Dr Sue Barnes, Wales Air Ambulance Chief Executive, said: "The support that our Charity receives is incredible.

"From everyone who raises money for us, to our army of volunteers - they are all lifesavers.

"I would also like to thank our Trustees, Charity colleagues, partners, medics and pilots for their passion, determination and dedication to the people of our country, and our focus on serving Wales and saving lives.

"On 3,544 occasions last year we were able to attend life or limb-threatening emergencies and that was only possible thanks to everybody I have mentioned."

While the helicopter operation is supported by the people of Wales through charitable donations to the Wales Air Ambulance, the medical capability on board the aircraft is delivered thanks to a partnership between the charity, Welsh Government and NHS Wales.