An inspiring fundraising effort involving hundreds of vintage Beanie Babies, Buddies, and old picture frames has raised more than £11,000 for the Great Western Air Ambulance Charity (GWAAC). This initiative was sparked by Steve Farnsworth, owner of Grimes House Gallery in Moreton-in-Marsh, who transformed a personal collection into a life-saving campaign.
Steve’s family had amassed a remarkable assortment of soft toys over the years—his late wife, daughter, and mother-in-law were passionate collectors. Rather than discarding the cherished items, Steve decided to rehome them, turning a family clear-out into a community-supported fundraising project.
“What began as a small effort to find new homes for these toys quickly attracted collectors, donors, and customers from across the region,” Steve shared. Some of the toys sold for over £50 each, and combined with sales of vintage picture frames and public donations, the total amount raised exceeded £11,000. So far, toy sales alone have brought in over £2,000, with more collectibles still available for purchase.
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Steve also highlighted the vital work of the air ambulance service, noting the common misconception about their role. “When the air ambulance responds to emergencies, they don’t always transport patients by air. Instead, they provide emergency room-level care at the scene, sometimes performing life-saving procedures like open-heart surgery roadside. They also deploy emergency response vehicles when flying isn’t feasible, delivering critical care where it’s needed most. Each mission costs approximately £2,200.”
In 2024, GWAAC’s Critical Care Team handled 621 emergencies in Gloucestershire, contributing to a record 2,272 incidents across its service area, which includes Bath, North East Somerset, Bristol, South Gloucestershire, North Somerset, and parts of Wiltshire.
Emma Fawcett, Supporter Engagement Coordinator at GWAAC, expressed gratitude for Steve’s efforts. “We’re truly grateful for the generosity of everyone who donated and purchased these toys, and for Steve’s incredible support. Every pound raised makes a significant difference in helping GWAAC deliver crucial, lifesaving care.”
The Great Western Air Ambulance Charity depends entirely on public support, raising over £4 million annually. It receives no regular government or National Lottery funding, making community donations essential to keep their lifesaving service running.