5 Feb 2024
We are thrilled to announce our royal patron, HRH The Prince of Wales, will be attending our Black and White Gala Ball on 7 February 2024.
Following our 2022 gala – which Prince William also attended – that raised over £1 million, we hope this event will raise vital funds to help us replace our two aging helicopters by September 2024.
Our Up Against Time appeal was launched in 2022 and is focused on raising an additional £15 million to replace both helicopters, to ensure our service can continue to serve the 10 million people who visit, live and work in London.
The Black and White Gala Ball is being hosted by international broadcaster Tania Bryer and television personality Mark-Francis Vandelli. The evening will include a live performance from Grammy-award winner Sister Sledge and an auction selling exclusive high-quality prizes.
Through flying with the crew and meeting patients, and his own work as an air ambulance pilot, Prince William has seen first-hand the impact of rapid response medical treatment for critically injured patients. When he announced his patronage, HRH The Prince of Wales met Captain Neil Jeffers on our helipad, which you can see in the above image.
We are honoured he will once again demonstrate his support for our life-saving cause by joining us at our gala.
Jonathan Jenkins, CEO of London’s Air Ambulance Charity, said:
“HRH Prince William truly understands our work and knows that every second counts in an emergency. We know that with his help as well as the continued support of the public, our crews can reach those who need them most – serving the people of London 24 hours a day, every day of the year. We’re thrilled he will be joining us at our 2024 gala event.”