Ashby man and meercat mascot visit Air Ambulance after raising over almost £25,000

By Grace Kennington 23rd Jun 2025

Martin with Marty the Meercat and Ashby Town Mayor Damilola (Photo: supplied)
Martin with Marty the Meercat and Ashby Town Mayor Damilola (Photo: supplied)

Following an incredible fundraising effort, Ashby's Martin Cooper has boosted the money he has raised for Your Local Air Ambulance, hitting a new total of almost £25,000. 

In January 2024, Martin started his fundraising journey after witnessing first hand their incredible work while helping a neighbour pre-Covid.  

He is a dedicated volunteer, giving talks across Leicestershire and Derbyshire about the vital work Your Local Air Ambulance does, all the times raising funds. Martin was joined on his adventures by Marty the Meercat. 

Presentation to Martin by Market Bosworth Rotary Club (Photo: supplied)

Since meeting Ashby Town Mayor Damilola and MP for North West Leicestershire Amanda Hack at an event celebrating volunteers in the area, Martin has raised a further £574. This came from a presentation Martin gave at Market Bosworth Rotary Club, which bought his total to almost £25,000. 

As a result of this, Martin and Marty have received a special invitation to visit the Helimed 53 at Coventry Airport on 11th July to meet the crew and take a look behind the scenes of this live-saving charity. 

Martin wants to thank everyone who has supported his fundraising efforts. 

     

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