Western Morning News (Saturday)
Lift-off for first air ambulance festival plans
ANEW one-day festival is coming to Cornwall this summer to celebrate blue light services across the region.
Helifest, launched by Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust, is the first of its kind to be hosted by the charity, and organisers say it is set to offer a full day of family fun this July.
Hoping to connect families to Cornwall’s vital emergency services, visitors can expect live music, stalls, circus entertainment and more to entertain throughout the day.
Fundraising officer Sarah Walker said: “We’re really excited to be bringing this new event to people across Cornwall and beyond. From families with children, to those with a special connection to our blue light services, it will be a wonderful opportunity to celebrate together, and there will be something here for everyone.
“We can’t wait to start revealing some of the entertainment and acts to come throughout the day and hope to make this a festival to remember.”
The event, set to be held on Saturday, July 16, will be hosted near Padstow, with more details to be announced in the coming weeks. Organisers said those attending can expect a “true festival vibe”, with food and drink vans, including a bar, and outdoor entertainment.
It will also be the first chance for the community to get up close to their new air ambulance, as well as other emergency services in attendance. Among them will be Devon & Cornwall Police, Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service, RNLI, Cornwall Blood Bikes and others, each showcasing their crucial work to support people across the Duchy.
Sarah added: “Our blue light services often band together to support people in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, from the hard work by police and paramedics on the roadside, to the search and rescue teams manning our coastlines.
“This event is not only a chance for people to hear more about this vital work but will also give them a chance to support Cornwall Air Ambulance for a bright future.”
Tickets will be £5 per person and are set to go on sale later this year.
Registration is now open for those who would like to keep up with the latest updates and ticket news – visit: https://cornwallairambulancetrust. org/helifest/