MORE than 50 people raised vital funds for Wiltshire Air Ambulance by taking part in the Bath Half Marathon on Sunday.

Runners included former patients who had been airlifted by Wiltshire Air Ambulance plus supporters.

The funds raised will be used for the charity’s day-to-day operations.

One runner was Shaun Fleming, who was airlifted by Wiltshire Air Ambulance after falling from a ladder at his home in Wroughton in September 2014.

His injuries included a fractured hip socket.

Shaun, a painter and decorator, ran the Bath Half Marathon last year and used this year’s event as a warm up for the London Marathon next month, which he is also running for Wiltshire Air Ambulance.

Shaun, 58, said: “It was terrific and I’m so pleased to raise money for Wiltshire Air Ambulance which is an essential service in our county.”

Wiltshire Air Ambulance paramedic Fred Thompson and charity team member Valerie Whistler also completed the event , running it for the first time.

The Wiltshire Air Ambulance runners were supported and cheered on by staff and volunteers from the charity, plus Wilber the mascot.

Corporate supporters included staff from Devizes-based Resolution Design and owner Richard Jaggs, who said: “The Bath Half is a great event and Wiltshire Air Ambulance is a great cause. I’ve never had to use it but it’s a really valuable service.”

Kenresa Stratford, fundraising and events co-ordinator, said: “Our runners are an inspiration to us and we thank them for their amazing efforts.

“The dedication and commitment they have put in for this is truly outstanding.

“The money they have raised will help our helicopter and crew to keep flying and saving lives for anyone living, working and travelling in Wiltshire and surrounding counties.”

Further information about Wiltshire Air Ambulance at www.wiltshireairambulance.co.uk