Helifest draws 4,500 visitors to see Cornwall Air Ambulance’s new helicopter

Published On: 18 August 2025Last Updated: 18 August 2025By CornishStuff

A record turnout at Scorrier House

More than 4,500 people flocked to Helifest, Cornwall Air Ambulance’s annual blue light festival, held at Scorrier House near Redruth on Saturday 19th July. The highlight of the day was the exclusive first look at the charity’s second lifesaving helicopter, a brand-new AW169 aircraft.

The helicopter, registered G-CNLL, is the result of the successful Heli2 Appeal, which raised the final £2.85 million needed for its purchase. For many, Helifest was their very first chance to see it up close and speak directly with the crew.

Meeting the crew

Dan Bawden, Doctor, said:

“It was great to be at Helifest with the supporters, and to thank the public for helping us get the new helicopter, as well as talk to them more about what we do.”

Adam Smith, Unit Chief Pilot, added:

“Helifest was the first opportunity for people to see the new helicopter and for us to show it off to the public. We really appreciate everyone who came along and made the effort to attend, and everyone who supported us in getting the new aircraft. We’re now looking forward to bringing it into service.”

A family-friendly celebration

The festival wasn’t just about the helicopter. Visitors explored emergency vehicles, watched live demonstrations, enjoyed local live music, and kept children entertained with a wide range of activities. Food stalls added to the atmosphere.

One parent said:

“My five-year-old girl has loved it, she has sat in every emergency vehicle possible and we’ve had a look around the new helicopter which was great, there is so much here for families to do, a great atmosphere and a real buzz.”

Another family commented:

“It has been fascinating to see all the emergency vehicles and to look inside them, including the helicopter which is awesome. There is something for all ages which is really good. We’ve really enjoyed it and will be coming back!”

A vital fundraiser

This year’s Helifest raised an impressive £38,500, money that will help ensure Cornwall Air Ambulance can continue to attend critically ill or injured patients. The charity needs to raise over £8 million every year to keep flying and receives no direct government funding, relying entirely on the generosity of communities, businesses, and individuals.

Tim Bunting, Chief Executive, said:

“Helifest was a wonderful community-spirited day, celebrating our fantastic blue lights services along with fantastic music, fun, games, retail, food, and everything that you might want. We were blown away by how many people turned out and it was fantastic that the public had the opportunity to see the new aircraft, as they have been part of the process from start to finish. People were finding their names on the Heli Heroes boards and spoke to the crew to find out how the new aircraft is elevating the level of care we’re able to offer. Cornwall is a phenomenal community, but we can only carry out our lifesaving work with that support, so for people to come out in their thousands means a huge amount.”