Stephen Chidgey donated a 3–4-night stay at his multi award-winning self-catering cottage near Padstow to Cornwall Air Ambulance and was delighted to hear his generosity raised £750.
The lot was part of an online auction held at the charity’s annual golf day which this year took place at Richmond Golf Club, London. In total, the event raised more than £26,000.
As both accommodation provider and Cornish resident, Stephen is a keen supporter of Cornwall Air Ambulance. Guests at the Old Barn in Tregonetha are invited to make a donation during their stay, and Stephen matches the amount they pledge.
“For me, the helicopter and its team are a reassuring presence in a Cornwall, where any of us could find ourselves in sudden need of urgent hospital treatment,” he said.
“Hundreds of lives are saved every year because the crew can reach people quickly. That’s especially important in a rural community like ours where access by road can be slow and difficult.
“It’s so easy for tourism businesses to suggest visitors contribute to a service that keeps them safer as well.
“No-one expects to be badly injured but, when an emergency happens, it’s comforting to know Cornwall Air Ambulance is there to help.”
The Old Barn is a highly sought-after, rural cottage that sleeps five. Stephen prides himself on always going above and beyond for visitors and an impressive succession of Visit England and Cornwall Tourism gold awards is testament to his well-deserved achievements.
Karen Hurn, Philanthropy Manager at Cornwall Air Ambulance, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Stephen Chidgey for his kind donation of a stay at the Old Barn in Tregonetha, as part of our London Golf Day online auction. The venue is truly stunning, and we have used it for our own Cornwall Air Ambulance events.
“The money raised from the auction will go towards helping to keep your helicopter flying and saving lives across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, and every penny raised really does make the difference. Thank you, Stephen, for your continued support.”
For more information, visit https://www.oldbarncornwall.co.uk/
