AN association that has a branch in the Worth Valley is giving a fundraising lift to the Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

Yorkshire Countrywomen’s Association (YCA) members have coined-in more than £15,000 for the charity.

A cheque will be handed over later this month.

Over 60 branches of the association across the county have spent the past ten months raising funds.

Activities have included garden parties, mad hatter’s teas, wheelbarrow races and a Yorkshire Day at Temple Newsam.

And a member, Glenys Rowe, designed an air ambulance tapestry through which she raised over £1,000 by ‘selling’ stitches to complete it.

“The tapestry has been a huge success and I’ve taken it everywhere – from regional shows to a Goldwing motorbike light parade!” she said.

The association’s county chairman, Anita Taylor, said she was delighted with how the fundraising had gone.

She added: “This year our ladies chose a worthwhile charity to support – the Yorkshire Air Ambulance has come to so many people’s rescue we decided it was time for us to help them out too.

“Our members are a versatile bunch and have really enjoyed coming-up with new ideas to raise funds while enjoying the company of each other.”

The Yorkshire Air Ambulance charity needs to raise £12,000 a day to keep its two aircraft operational and relies on public donations.

For more details, visit yorkshireairambulance.org.uk.