A schoolboy has presented the Wales Air Ambulance with a cheque for more than £1,800, in memory of his father who tragically died last year.

Calan-James Rees, age five, from Ammanford, climbed Pen y Fan on the first anniversary of his dad, Sam Rees’ death in August.

Sam died following an off-road motorcycle incident in Tairgwaith.

The Ysgol Gwaun cae Gurwen pupil was joined by his mother Gemma Lewis and around 30 family members, on the climb up the highest peak in South Wales. Calan-James completed the fundraiser in just one hour and 21 minutes in aid of the charity.

Calan-James was delighted to present the cheque to the charity at a recent airbase visit at the Wales Air Ambulance’s headquarters in Llanelli. They were also joined by Calan-James’ auntie, Rachel, and cousin Koby.

Calan’s mother Gemma said:

“We absolutely loved our base visit it really was more of an eye opener to what incredible, dedication, love and support our heroes put into every patient in need. We absolutely loved our day at the base, our heroes don’t get enough credit and we couldn’t thank them enough.

“We are so thankful and grateful for all the support and love that our community put in to help us raise the money for an amazing cause!”

Wales Air Ambulance offers advanced critical care and is often described as a ‘Flying ED’. The on-board consultants and critical care practitioners are highly skilled and carry some of the most pioneering medical equipment in the world.

Ysgol Gwaun Cae Gurwen also showed its support topupil Calan-James by raising £100 towards his fundraiser by having an in house sponsored walk around the school.

Katie Macro, Wales Air Ambulance’s campaigns manager, said: “Calan-James and Gemma have raised a fantastic £1,879 for the charity in memory of their much-loved father and partner, Sam.

“Despite the pain the family are going through, they wanted to help raise funds so our medics could be there for the people of Wales when they need us most, which is inspirational.

“We are very grateful for this donation raised by the family. Calan-James is a delightful boy, and he should be immensely proud of what he has achieved at such a young age.”