Local farmer's inspiring story of Devon Air Ambulance rescue and raising funds

Alex Tapp of Awliscombe near Honiton needed the Devon Air Ambulance nearly 20 years ago.

He now runs a farm machinery sales business and decided to mark the 20-year anniversary with a generous donation.

Alex tells the story: "I work in the agricultural industry and 20 years ago this December I had an accident whilst working on a dairy farm near Cullompton.

"I was 16-years-old at the time when a large stack of straw bales toppled over, falling on me, which resulted in me breaking my femur, requiring surgery for a metal rod to be fitted, also damaging my shoulder.

"Fortunately, Devon Air Ambulance (DAA) came to the rescue and airlifted me to hospital. I am forever grateful for the service they provided that day.

"I am still working in agriculture but have since started my own business selling used farm machinery based in Awliscombe just outside Honiton.

"This December will be 20 years since my accident and with it recently being Farm Safety Week I was wondering how I could raise some funds to donate to the Air Ambulance who helped me.

"I realised that, with social distancing, an event would not be allowed and that their fundraising income would have been severely impacted this year. So, instead, I decided I would donate £1,000 from the sale of my next Tractor to DAA.

"Local farmer Martin Greenslade, from Cullompton, came to view our CASE IH CX90 and upon discussing price I stated my intention to donate to DAA. I couldn't believe it when he said that he, too, had been airlifted by DAA.

"His accident was six years ago – and again, due to a farming accident, in which he fell from a stack of bales. Not surprisingly, we were both delighted to know that DAA would benefit from the donation; this way, everyone's a winner.

"Handing over the keys of his new tractor to Martin, and the cheque to Brian Chapman from Devon Air Ambulance, Brian promoted another fundraising initiative for the farming community: VPlough'20.

"In the absence of live events and matches, due to Covid-19, here is a virtual competition, with classes for a range of agricultural vehicles, complete with cash prizes!"

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