The Yorkshire Air Ambulance held their annual Recognition Awards at Oulton Hall in Leeds on the 17 October, celebrating Yorkshire Businesses and Fundraisers from across the region, who have dedicated their time to raise money for the charity.
A judging panel handpicked the finalists from the volunteers, businesses and fundraisers who have worked tirelessly for the charity, and Jon Mitchell and Gaynor Barnes from ITV Calendar, and who are also Patrons of the charity, compered and hosted the awards.
Former Yorkshire Air Ambulance patient Stephen Croft, was awarded the Patient Fundraising Ambassador award for his service to the charity following his cardiac arrest at Barnsley’s Oakwell stadium last year.
Stephen was airlifted from the Club in September 2018 following a cardiac arrest he experienced whilst volunteering pitch side for the Barnsley vs Burton Albion game.
The Yorkshire Air Ambulance landed on the pitch in front of 11,000 people and managed to resuscitate him, before airlifting Stephen to Sheffield Northern General Hospital for further treatment.
A year after his cardiac arrest, through the work Stephen and his family have done with Barnsley Football Club, they have raised almost £14,000 for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance and the total is still rising.
Stephen has also inspired many local organisations and companies to support the Yorkshire Air Ambulance, as well becoming a registered volunteer for the Charity, along with his wife, daughter and two friends. Through his connections with the club and his volunteering, Stephen is working to promote the work of the Charity to the people of South Yorkshire.
