Cyclist Thomas Yaxley paid a flying visit to our Airbase on Tuesday 12 August, as he cycles to every Air Ambulance Airbase in the UK in memory of his brother Hugo, who tragically died in a road traffic collision in 2020.
From 31 July to 13 August, Thomas will cover almost 3,000km and 25,000m of elevation as part of the Ride4Hugo Air Base Challenge 2025.
He has raced his way down from Perth in Scotland, with a sea crossing to Northern Ireland to ensure he visits all 21 services, raising £7,242 so far.
The journey has been submitted for a Guinness World Record.
With a belly full of coffee, croissants and confectionery – and his first shower in a few days – Thomas set off from our base in Thruxton, Andover, at 09:00am (having camped overnight outside the race circuit), as he makes his way to Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.
In memory of Hugo
Thomas is undertaking the challenge to mark five years since the crash that changed his family’s life forever.
On 16 November 2020, his brother Hugo, aged just 20, was fatally injured in a head-on collision. The incident saw a rapid response from multiple emergency teams, including three air ambulances.
Though Hugo sadly passed away later that day, the care provided gave his family precious final moments with him.
In Hugo’s memory, Thomas is raising the funds for Air Ambulances UK, Place2Be and HvH ARTS (Sir Hubert Von Herkomer Arts Foundation).
Hugo (right) was just 20 years old when he died.
Thomas said:
“Hugo loved adventure and believed in doing things differently. Five years on, I wanted to do something bold, something that reflects his energy – and also gives back to the organisations that supported us and mirror Hugo’s passions.
“Nobody’s ever taken on this challenge before – it’s going to be tough, but it’s nothing compared to what so many families go through when facing tragedy.”
A huge thank you to Thomas and everyone who has supported him on his journey.
Donate today to help support Thomas and the charities close to Hugo.
