The fantastic amount of £7,209 raised from this year’s Graham’s Gallon walk has been presented to the Great North Air Ambulance.

Charlie and Agnes Simpson have organised walks since 2009 in memory of their son Graham, who tragically died in a motorcycle accident.

Emma Maude, on behalf of GNAAS, thanked everyone, especially Charlie and Agnes Simpson for their continued support and said they are currently replacing their two existing helicopters.

The first is due for delivery in two months’ time.

A cheque for £7,209 raised from this year's Graham’s Gallon walk is presented to Emma Maude of Great North Air Ambulance.

placeholder image — A cheque for £7,209 raised from this year's Graham’s Gallon walk is presented to Emma Maude of Great North Air Ambulance.

They also require a £2.5m deposit to enable them to order a third new helicopter.

The ongoing high cost of fuel is also “a huge drain” on their funds.

Emma also presented Charlie Simpson a certificate showing the total raised in memory of Graham in the past 18 years – an incredible £129,714.48 which, with Gift Aid from this year’s walk, would be well over £130,000.