Entries Open for Cornwall Air Ambulance Heli Hike in Bude

Could You Take on Cornwall Air Ambulance’s First Heli Hike?

Entries are now open for Cornwall Air Ambulance’s first ever Heli Hike, with the lifesaving charity inviting people across Cornwall to sign up and help raise vital funds.

Taking place on Saturday 25th April, the brand new walking event will give participants the chance to explore the landscapes around Bude while supporting the service that provides critical care across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

Two Scenic Routes to Choose From

Heli Hike offers two different routes, both featuring scenic stretches along the South West Coast Path, through farm fields and beside the canal.

The main challenge is a 12-mile circular route starting and finishing at Bude Castle. The distance reflects the average 12-minute flight time it takes Cornwall Air Ambulance to reach incidents.

For those looking for a shorter walk, there is also a 3.5-mile route beginning at Widemouth Bay Beach and finishing at Bude Castle.

The event has been designed to be family friendly and suitable for all ages, with dogs welcome as long as they are kept on leads.

A Day of Celebration at the Finish

After completing the walk, participants will receive a Heli Hike t-shirt and an eco-friendly medal.

There will also be hot food available thanks to Rapid Relief Team and a live DJ playing music, creating a lively atmosphere where friends and family can spend time together.

Former Patient Taking Part

Seventeen-year-old Lewie Cole, from Bude, will also be taking part in the event.

Two years ago Lewie fell 35 feet off a cliff into a rocky cove below. His twin brother Logan Cole made the call to 999 at the time of the incident.

Lewie and Logan will now walk together as part of Cornwall Air Ambulance’s first Heli Hike.

Entry Costs and Fundraising

Registration costs £15 for adults and £10 for children, while those aged under five can attend for free. A 25 per cent discount is available for teams of five or more.

Participants are also encouraged to raise additional funds for Cornwall Air Ambulance alongside the entry fee.

The event is being supported by sponsors bott UK and M&M Plant (Devon & Cornwall) Ltd.

‘Every Step Helps Save Lives’

Karen Hurn, Head of Fundraising and Philanthropy at Cornwall Air Ambulance, said:

“We are incredibly excited to be launching our first ever Heli Hike – an event where literally every single step taken is helping to save lives right across our region.

“Whichever of our two routes you choose to take, your involvement will help us continue to provide critical care to patients like Lewie and ensure that together, we can be there for someone’s tomorrow. It’s going to be a brilliant day in Bude and we can’t wait to see everyone there.”

Supporting a Lifesaving Service

Last year, following support for the Heli2 Appeal, Cornwall Air Ambulance secured a second AW169 helicopter for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. The addition has increased availability significantly, meaning that weather permitting, a helicopter is always ready to respond, including during times of repair or servicing.

There is now also a doctor on board nearly all daytime missions, working alongside highly skilled critical care paramedics so patients can receive a full range of critical care skills.

Cornwall Air Ambulance was the UK’s first air ambulance service, with 2027 marking its 40th anniversary. The charity receives no direct government funding towards its running costs and must raise £9 million each year to keep the service operating.

People interested in taking part in the Heli Hike can find more information and register via the charity’s website: Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust.