Three Newry firm fundraisers raise £16,000 for Air Ambulance NI

Three Newry based businesses have helped raise £16,000 for Air Ambulance Northern Ireland, enough to fund the service for three critically ill patients anywhere in Northern Ireland. Granite Exchange, a co-working and office space provider joined CRASH Services and JMK Solicitors in the fundraising effort, which ran from January to June 2026.

The three companies took part in a range of challenges throughout the first half of the year in support of the charity's life saving mission. A record 27 colleagues from across the organisations took part in the Belfast City Marathon in May. Staff also took part in the Derry City Airport 5K runway run and competed in the Dragon Boat Race, while a company wide raffle added to the total raised.

Employees also contributed through regular monthly salary donations, and for every download of the CRASH & JMK app, the companies donate £1 towards the charity's work. Plans for the remainder of the year include the Belfast City Airport 5K runway run, along with further team led initiatives, breakfast mornings and challenge events.

Colleen O'Hare, Managing Director of Granite Exchange, said the firm was pleased to be part of the partnership. "We are delighted to play our part in this partnership. Knowing that our fundraising efforts contribute to the rapid response and medical care provided by the Air Ambulance team motivates us to keep pushing towards our annual target."

Michelle Murphy, Operations Director at CRASH Services, said the cause was a personal one for her. "At CRASH Services, we believe in giving back, and supporting Air Ambulance NI is a mission that unites our teams across all locations. It is rewarding to see our staff's collective efforts translate into support for a charity that makes such a tangible difference to people in their most vulnerable moments. This is a cause very close to my heart; the Air Ambulance team saved my brother's life following an accident last August, so I know personally just how vital the impact they make truly is."

Louise Mone, Managing Director at JMK Solicitors, said the team's dedication over the past six months had been wide ranging. "Air Ambulance NI provides a critical, life-saving service that is essential for the community in Northern Ireland. We are incredibly proud of our team's dedication over the past six months from marathon running to dragon boat racing and look forward to continuing our support for the charity throughout the remainder of the year."

Kerry Anderson, Head of Fundraising at Air Ambulance NI, thanked all three organisations for their support. "We are so grateful for the continued support from JMK Solicitors, CRASH Services, and Granite Exchange. As a charity, we rely heavily on the support of the public and local businesses like these. This £16,000 will have a lasting impact, fully funding the service to reach 3 future patients anywhere in Northern Ireland. We thank all the staff for their incredible energy and commitment over the past six months."

Those wishing to support the fundraising effort can donate via https://www.gofundme.com