Wales Air Ambulance has officially launched its campaign to fund a 24-hour helicopter operation, and called on residents to support the “massive step forward” for the charity.

Wales Air Ambulance currently operates 8am to 8pm, seven days a week, but the charity plans to extend its operating hours sometime this year.

Established on St David’s Day 2001, the helicopter charity has responded to over 30,000 missions in the 19 years it has served the Welsh public.

Wales Air Ambulance chairman David Gilbert said: “As we get ready to welcome in the start of a new decade, we felt there was no better time to take the next exciting step in developing our service.

“Since 2001, we have been there for the people of Wales but currently only operate 12 hours a day. With the help of the Welsh public, we want to make our vision of providing a 24-hour service a reality in 2020.

“To deliver our current service, we have to raise £6.5 million each year to ensure we can continue our lifesaving work.

“24-hour operations are likely to see our fundraising target exceed £8 million annually.

“We will only be able to achieve this with the help and support of the Welsh public.”

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