Bristol Airport staff embarked on a remarkable two-day cycling challenge, covering 160 miles to raise a record-breaking £87,000 for the Great Western Air Ambulance Charity (GWAAC).
The dedicated team, including Bristol Airport’s chief executive Dave Lees, journeyed along the scenic Great West Way route, starting from The Brunel Museum in London and finishing at Bristol Airport. The charity ride took place on September 1 and 2, as cyclists navigated through picturesque countryside and historic towns before returning to the airport terminal.
Back at the airport, fellow colleagues joined in by cycling on exercise bikes in the departure lounge, cheered on by passengers and visitors, creating a vibrant atmosphere of support and community.
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The funds raised will directly benefit GWAAC, which responds to over six emergency incidents daily across Bristol, Gloucestershire, Bath and North East Somerset, and North Somerset. Each life-saving mission costs approximately £2,200, making every donation critical to sustaining this vital service.
Dan Davis, an Advanced Practitioner in Critical Care and one of seven GWAAC participants, shared: “Taking part in this fundraising ride reminded me how essential teamwork is—both on the bike and in critical care. We rely on support like this to be there for patients during their most desperate moments. Thanks to Bristol Airport’s incredible efforts, over 36 missions can now be funded, which is truly amazing.”
The challenge also received generous backing from airport business partners and suppliers, including Ryebridge Construction Ltd, Lancer Scott Ltd, PLS Civil Engineering Ltd, J & G Fencing, Stantec, Lagan Airport Maintenance Ltd, The Development Studio Ltd, Alun Griffiths Contractors Ltd, and G2 Signs.
Andrew Goodenough, Infrastructure Director at Bristol Airport, expressed his pride: “We are incredibly proud of our colleagues and business partners who raised a phenomenal £87,000 for GWAAC—our highest ever total at a charity event. Every pound will help ensure vital emergency care continues across our region. The generosity shown is a true reflection of the community spirit and dedication at Bristol Airport.”