CHESHIRE Forest Hunt has raised vital funds for the North West Air Ambulance.

At the hunt’s Point to Point Race at Tabley House on April 7 a cheque for £1,450 was presented to the Air Ambulance (NWAA) by members of Cheshire Forest Hunt.

The cheque was presented by the three members of this year’s Tumbler’s Club, one of who, Chance Wilson, owes a debt of gratitude to the NWAA this season, and the Cheshire Forest’s Huntsman.

Funds for the NWAA were raised by the Cheshire Forest’s Tumbler’s Club - every faller makes a contribution of £5, with each fall recorded throughout the season.

At the end of the season awards are presented at the annual Tumbler’s Club dinner.

The Countryside Alliance’s head of hunting Polly Portwin said: “It is great to see the Cheshire Forest Hunt raising such a generous amount for what is a vital service available to all members of the public, not just those who follow hounds, in North West England.

“A large number of hunts organise a variety of events throughout the year to raise funds for both local and national charities, and the hunting community is very proud of the part it takes in assisting these important charities with their fundraising.”

The North West Air Ambulance (NWAA) is the helicopter emergency medical service which covers North West England, spanning Cheshire, Cumbria, Lancashire, Greater Manchester and Merseyside.

The NWAA’s three helicopters provide a vital service 365 days a year when speed and accessibility is critical.

The NWAA flew 214 missions last month, and has flown 2,546 missions in the past 12 months.

Established as a charity in 1999, the fleet relies wholly on donations and funding from individuals and organisations.