The RAF Red Arrows presented four special awards on behalf of disabled flying charity Aerobility at its annual Aviators Ball.
Four prestigious awards were presented by Leader of the Red Arrows ‘Red1’ Squadron Leader Jon Bond at Aerobility’s Aviators Ball, its biggest fundraising event of the year.
The Pooley’s Aviator Sword was awarded to Mike McClelland – a disabled Aerobility student and volunteer who earned his Private Pilot’s License this year. Mike was medically discharged from the Royal Air Force in 2018 after suffering an undiagnosed slipped disk 15 years earlier.
Aerobility’s Special Recognition Award was granted to The Blades Aerobatic Team which was founded by 2Excel Aviation. The award was received by 2Excel Aviation CEO, Andy Offer OBE. After retirement from the RAF, Andy co-founded 2Excel Aviation and the Blades Aerobatic Team.
Over the past 14 years, 2Excel has supported Aerobility by providing auction prizes, raising funds and participation in flying events, and many other charity projects. The award recognises its enduring commitment and support for Aerobility since 2009.
The ‘Gallagher Fundraiser of the Year’ award was presented to wheelchair motocross athlete Tom Woods and his coach Ben Adshead, who have been completing 10K races across the country to meet an ambitious fundraising goal.
The ‘Gallagher Volunteer of the Year’ award went to Emrys Harries, who has Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis. Despite the difficulties that came with his disability he has been heavily involved with the charity since 2005 and has only recently retired as the Secretary of the Board Of Trustees. The award recognises Emrys for his contributions to Aerobility – including being the person who came up with the name for the charity.
Aerobility CEO Mike Miller-Smith said, “Everyone at Aerobility is delighted to celebrate the incredible support we receive every day. We are so glad that these outstanding individuals are getting the recognition they deserve within the Aerobility network and beyond.”
The Aviators Ball celebrated 30 years of operations for Aerobility. Since 1993, the charity has introduced more than 10,000 people to the magic and wonder of flight, forever transforming their perspective on the world and their personal capabilities.
About Aerobility
Aerobility is a UK charity that changes lives by allowing anyone, with any disability, to experience the magic and wonder of flight. The charity provides access to modified aircraft and equipment, giving every disabled person the chance to spread their wings – both literally and figuratively.
