Lappa Valley Partners with Cornwall Air Ambulance for 2026

One of Cornwall’s best known family attractions has announced a new partnership with an essential emergency charity for 2026.

Lappa Valley, near Newquay, has revealed that it will be working alongside Cornwall Air Ambulance throughout the year to help promote its work and raise vital funds, including through a special charity day taking place on 14th March 2026.

Supporting a Lifesaving Service

Cornwall Air Ambulance carries out around 1,000 to 1,200 lifesaving missions every year across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. Crews respond to a wide range of emergencies, from cardiac arrests to road traffic collisions, often reaching patients far faster than would be possible by road.

The charity needs to raise more than £8 million each year to keep its service operational. It receives no regular government or NHS funding for its day to day running costs, relying instead on public support to remain airborne.

📷Lappa Valley’s Ben Harding (L) and Keith Southwell (R) pose for a photo with Cornwall Air Ambulances newest helicopter “Duke of Cornwall”

Why Lappa Valley Chose the Charity

Keith Southwell, owner of Lappa Valley, said the decision to support the charity was an easy one.

“We’re incredibly proud to name Cornwall Air Ambulance as Lappa Valley’s Charity Partner of the Year.

“Their crews are there for our community on the very worst days, delivering lifesaving care when minutes matter and when reaching Cornwall by road simply isn’t fast enough.”

Keith added that the helicopters are a familiar sight over East Wheal Rose, particularly during the summer months.

“The helicopters are a regular sight flying over East Wheal Rose, sometimes multiple times each day in the Summer and every time I see one, I am thankful are on their way to help someone in real need.

“So many families, from residents to holidaymakers, owe a huge debt to this charity’s rapid response and specialist expertise. Supporting them feels not just important, but essential.”

Charity Day on 14th March

More details about the partnership were shared by Ben Harding, Lappa Valley’s Operations Director, including plans for a dedicated charity day.

“We are looking forward to handing over Lappa Valley to Cornwall Air Ambulance on the 14th March, where we’re waiving our admission fee in exchange for visitors making a donation to the charity. Their volunteers will be manning our ticket office, and every single penny of the suggested £9 admission will go straight to help them continue their important work.

“Alongside our two railways and indoor and outdoor activities, Cornwall Air Ambulance will also be putting on activities, and you will get the chance to meet their mascot Aircrew Andy too.”

📷Lappa Valley’s Ben Harding and Keith Southwell meet members of the charities’ aircrew and medical teams in front of Cornwall Air Ambulances newest helicopter “Duke of Cornwall”