Ambulance service announce London Marathon entry in aid of Charity’s 30th anniversary
Gloucestershire Emergency Care Assistant George Medcalf, who works for the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT) will be running the 2025 London Marathon in April, to raise funds for the South Western Ambulance Charity, who are celebrating their 30th anniversary this year.
George Medcalf, 37, joined SWASFT in 2021 as an Emergency Care Assistant having previously served 12 years in the Royal Navy and is no stranger to challenges. This is George’s first marathon, and he sees this as an opportunity to give back to the community and support the vital work of the charity as well as fuelling his love for running.
George said: "Having witnessed firsthand the dedication and compassion of my colleagues, I wanted to do something to support the charity's mission. I have always enjoyed running and wanted to challenge myself by taking on my first marathon and when I saw this opportunity, I applied immediately. The London Marathon is a great platform to spread awareness and raise money for such a fantastic charity like South Western Ambulance Charity which does so much for communities like mine.”
The South Western Ambulance Charity provides valuable support to the NHS ambulance service, funding initiatives that enhance patient care, improve staff well-being and support communities to learn lifesaving skills. For example, last year they funded outdoor space improvements at over 50 ambulance stations to support staff, and this year they’ve launched a fundraising appeal to raise £210,000 to buy, convert and equip seven new Community Response Vehicles for volunteer Community First Responders to support patients.
Louise Walsh, Charity Fundraising Manager at South Western Ambulance Charity said: "We are incredibly grateful to George for taking on this epic challenge. His commitment to supporting the Charity in our 30th anniversary year will make a real difference in the lives of the hard-working staff, dedicated volunteers and local communities that we support across the South West."
George is working hard to be ready to run his first marathon, fitting in his training around work-shifts and spending time with his young family. To support George and the South Western Ambulance Charity, please make a donation by visiting JustGiving Link.
For more information about South Western Ambulance Charity, please visit South Western Ambulance Charity Website.
The 2025 London Marathon takes place on Sunday 27 April.