Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) has paid tribute to a Northallerton couple who have raised £9,000 for the charity.
Wilf and Marjorie Gill, who transform their Northallerton home into a festive wonderland each Christmas, won the Individual & Supporter Organisations Award award at the charity’s annual Recognition Awards held last week at the Cedar Court Hotel, Bradford.
The evening, hosted by well-known Yorkshire figures Jon Mitchell and Gaynor Barnes, was attended by more than 200 guests.
This year’s theme, Every Penny Counts – Fundraising in the Community, emphasised the everyday heroes whose dedication serves as an inspiring example of the positive impact that a community united in a common cause can achieve, proving that even the smallest contributions can create a monumental impact.
Regional Fundraising Manager for North and East Yorkshire, Tessa Klemz said: “This evening shines a spotlight on the true essence of Yorkshire—the incredible people. Their unwavering dedication to our mission is the lifeblood of our service, and we are incredibly grateful for everything they do for YAA. The creativity and passion shown in their fundraising efforts truly inspire us all.”
The following individuals and organisations were honoured:
Community Group of the Year: Hawes Yarnbombers
Sponsored by the John Cotton Group, with their Chairman, Mark Cotton, presenting the award.
The Hawes Yarnbombers have become local legends for their jaw-dropping knitted installations, transforming everyday outdoor spaces into vibrant displays that capture the imagination of all who see them. These larger-than-life creations—such as their Alice in Wonderland display in 2021, Shrek in 2022, and Wallace & Gromit in 2023—have not only wowed visitors but also raised over £18,500 for YAA. Their unique Wallace & Gromit piece has even found a permanent home at the Wensleydale Creamery, continuing to support YAA in a truly unforgettable way!
Volunteer of the Year: Jean and Ivan Joynes
Sponsored by Gripple, with Natalie Rusling, Chair of the Gripple Foundation, presenting the award.
Jean and Ivan Joynes from Minskip are exemplary volunteers who embody the spirit of community support. Jean enjoys attending stalls and bucket collections on behalf of YAA, where her friendly demeanour is well-known. Ivan complements this by crafting walking sticks with a friend to raise funds, which are always popular among supporters. He also hosts metal detecting events to further contribute to YAA’s efforts. Additionally, the couple regularly participates in the Minskip car boot sale, donating their earnings to fund YAA’s lifesaving missions.
Individual & Supporter Organisations Award: Wilf and Marjorie Gill
Sponsored by Serious Injury Law, with Natalie Mousavi presenting the award.
Wilf and Marjorie Gill have transformed their Northallerton home into a festive wonderland each Christmas, with an ever-growing collection of spectacular light displays. Their enchanting decorations, which fill their garden, create a magical atmosphere, drawing in visitors with sweets, mulled wine, and Christmas excitement for local children. Over the past four years, their impressive efforts have raised nearly £9,000 for YAA, with Wilf dressed as Santa alongside YAA mascot Percy, delighting the community with their festive spirit.
Corporate Supporters Award: Berwins Solicitors
Sponsored by AirTV, with Managing Director Matt Richards presenting the award.
Berwins Solicitors, based in Harrogate, have demonstrated outstanding support for YAA through a variety of fundraising activities, including static cycle days, quizzes, and participation in the Yorkshire Marathon. Their collective efforts as corporate supporters have fostered a strong sense of teamwork among colleagues, raising nearly £7,000 to date.
Patient Fundraising Ambassador Award: The Holberry Family
Presented by Iain Fawcett, Operations Director from Rosemont Pharmaceuticals.
In July 2023, Richard Holberry, from Harrogate, sustained life-threatening injuries in a motorcycle accident, suffering multiple spinal fractures, spinal cord damage, fractured ribs, and a collapsed lung. Yorkshire Air Ambulance responded swiftly, providing two hours of critical care before airlifting him to Leeds General Infirmary. Inspired by his recovery, Richard’s sons, Joe, Harry, and Oli, along with friends, took on the challenging 24-mile Yorkshire Three Peaks, raising over £7,000 in a heartfelt tribute, driven by their gratitude for YAA’s life-saving role.
In addition to the North Yorkshire award winners, The Bramhope Trust received the Grants and Trusts Award, recognising their outstanding support of £67,750 since 2010. The Outstanding Partnership Award was presented to Morrisons for their pivotal role in the clothing recycling scheme, contributing over £750,000. The prestigious Chairman’s Award was given to Jan Swallow for remarkable fundraising efforts, totalling over £103,000 in memory of her son.
All recipients exemplify dedication and commitment to Yorkshire Air Ambulance.
For more information about Yorkshire Air Ambulance and how you can support the life-saving work of the Charity, please visit www.yaa.org.uk.
Be the first to comment