Local ‘Fundraiser of the Year’ celebrates at star studded Pride of Britain Awards

Wayne, who’s in his mid-40’s, works as a Crew Commander for Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service, based in March. In his spare time Wayne keeps fit and raises money for his chosen charity, Magpas Air Ambulance. He has taken on triathlons, Insane Terrain and IRONMAN; and he also organises and invites members of the community to take part in charity spin-a-thons. Wayne explains why, “In the 16 years I’ve worked with the Fire & Rescue Service, I’ve attended many emergencies where we have needed the expert skills of the Magpas Air Ambulance. From road traffic collisions to a tree surgeon who suffered horrific injuries during a chainsaw accident, the lifesaving work of the Magpas doctors and paramedics is truly amazing to see.”

With local businesses and high profile instructors showing their support, Wayne has helped to organise Sunset, 12 hour and 24 hour spinning classes (to name a few) and promises to keep on doing so. He’s raised well over £20,000 so far,  and wants to inspire others to take up a challenge of their own and help fundraise, “I want to do my bit to keep this amazing, lifesaving service going – and I would really encourage others to do the same. You never know – you or your family may need Magpas Air Ambulance one day.”

To honour his fundraising prowess, Wayne was awarded Fundraiser of the Year, for the region of West Anglia, in this year’s Pride of Britain Awards. This meant he was invited to attend the National Pride of Britain Awards at the London Grosvenor House Hotel, where Wayne spent his evening surrounded by celebs and well known figures, from sports legends to reality TV personalities. He walked the red carpet alongside his wife, Kay and the suited and booted stars, and they had the night of their lives listening to the inspirational stories of those who attended alongside them.

Although Wayne didn’t win the national award, he’s truly become Cambridgeshire’s local hero and thoroughly enjoyed the well-deserved celebrations at this prestigious event. Wayne humbly explains, “Our goal is to try and raise £100,000 by 2025. It’s a tall order, but with my friends and family, and everyone else around us, it shouldn’t be too much trouble.”

We can’t wait to see what challenge Wayne takes on next!

Follow in Wayne’s footsteps and find out how you can go Further, Faster, Greater to help keep the Magpas Air Ambulance flying.