Face covering fundraiser generates £10k

Devon Air Ambulance to benefit

A Devon woman who began making face-coverings at the beginning of the pandemic last year is on the way to raising £10,000 by selling them to raise funds for Devon Air Ambulance.

The service says it's "astounded" at the efforts of Linda Gilbert and that after a tough year, 2021 is already looking brighter for the charity with new and exciting fundraising plans in motion.

Of her contribution, Ms Gilbert said: “I love fabric but decided I had too much, so wondered what I could make. At the same time a lovely neighbour, who is a midwife, asked if I could possibly make her a few masks for work and that’s how it all began. I saw an opportunity not only to help people by making 100 per cent cotton masks, but also to raise money for a charity.
 
“I am from a Devon family and am very, very proud of my county. The idea of combining the two, mask making and helping DAA sprung into my mind. I thought I might be able to donate £500! Well, the rest is history and I soon hope to reach £10,000!
 
“I have been so heartened by the overwhelming support I have had and at every juncture. People have been delighted to help our wonderful local charity and so have I. 2020 has been a difficult year for all but a year where there has been a very positive and rewarding outcome from my sewing machine and me!” 

Her face coverings can be see at her Facebook page: http://bit.ly/LindaGilbert

Devon Air Ambulance is now planning a fun fitness challenge for the spring.  Heléna Holt, CEO of Devon Air Ambulance, said: “We were so sorry to have to announce the cancellation of our three main fundraising events last year and after doing so, we quickly needed to do all we could to find other ways to maintain our income, and the service we provide for the people of Devon. We were absolutely thrilled, that despite the pandemic affecting people in all sorts of ways, they strongly supported our first virtual event, which attracted not only some very keen fitness enthusiasts but also lots of young children and families having lots of fun, which was lovely to see.

“Our next challenge will be just as good, if not better and hopefully, as the weather becomes brighter and the days a little longer, you will feel like springing into action and raising more, much needed funds for your air ambulance service.”