Yate’s local air ambulance, Great Western Air Ambulance Charity (GWAAC), has become the latest fixture in Yate’s Shopping Centre as they opened their new shop in North Walk.
The new shop was opened in a small ceremony this morning with a few of the charity’s Patrons, including Countess Bathurst and former patient and Trustee, Robin Jaques, who officially opened the new shop with a ribbon cutting. Also in attendance was Mayor of Yate, Karl Tomasin, Councillor Ruth Davis, Chair of South Gloucestershire Council, as well as Trustees and volunteers of the charity who came along to support their opening day.
The charity are encouraging the people of Yate and surrounding areas to come and visit their new shop in a bid to increase their local presence and raise awareness of the vital service they provide in our local communities.
The shop is the second one for the local charity, who opened their first retail unit in Westbury-on-Trym last year, and will help to bring in vital funds for the lifesaving service.
GWAAC provides emergency care to people who are in a state so critical that they require the skills of a specially trained team of doctors and paramedics at the scene of the accident or incident. Though it is part of the regional 999 response service and works closely with NHS hospitals, the charity is entirely funded by local people.
Shop Manager and Yate resident, Marwa Bahssali, said: “We’re really excited to finally be open and welcoming customers into our shop. Being based here will give us a vital connection with the local people and the community we serve on a daily basis, enabling them to learn more about what we do, our critical care, and encouraging more people to get involved – whether that be through volunteering or fundraising.”
