Derby local took on Manchester Marathon to support charity’s lifesaving missions

Andy Cooke from Derby took on the Manchester Marathon to raise vital funds to support the lifesaving missions of the Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance (DLRAA).

The Manchester Marathon is established as one of the largest in Europe, the event raises millions for charity and brings huge benefits to the local area thanks to increased tourism and collaborative community schemes.

On Sunday 27 April 2025 Andy completed the Manchester Marathon and managed to raise an amazing £2,221 to support the local lifesaving charity.

“I am a teacher in Derby and my classroom overlooks the helipad at Royal Derby Hospital and myself and my pupils often find ourselves looking out the window to see the helicopter landing or taking off,” said Andy Cooke.

“This has shown me the importance of this service, and I am proud to have raised funds to support further vital missions,” he added.

Within minutes, DLRAA’s critical care crews can be on the ground delivering pre-hospital emergency care and giving patients the very best chance of survival – this vital service relies entirely on donations to raise the £2,300 needed for each lifesaving mission, as the charity receives no government or National Lottery funding.

“We would like to say thank you to Andy for taking on the Manchester Marathon and raising more than £2,000 to support the charity,” said Morgan Turnbull, Junior Events Manager for the charity.

“We receive no government or National Lottery funding so we rely entirely on generous donations from the local community and businesses to raise every penny needed for each lifesaving mission,” she expressed.

For more information on the charity, or to show your support please visit: www.theairambulanceservice.org.uk or call 0300 3045 999.