Tesco stores across Northern Ireland go red for Air Ambulance NI fundraiser

Tesco stores across Northern Ireland will be turning red this Saturday, 13th September, in support of Air Ambulance Northern Ireland (Air Ambulance NI).

From 10am, volunteers will be fundraising at Tesco Superstore Ballymena, with plenty of family-friendly activities, including free colouring sheets for children.

Throughout the day, the Air Ambulance mascot will be visiting various Tesco stores across Northern Ireland, and it is hoped he will make an appearance in Ballymena. Be sure to catch a photo if you see him!

Ronny McFall, Community Champion at Tesco Superstore Ballymena

Ronny McFall, Community Champion at Tesco Superstore Ballymena, said:

“This Saturday 13th September Tesco Stores across NI will Turn Red for the Air Ambulance NI. Volunteers will be fundraising from 10am in Tesco Superstore Ballymena. The Air Ambulance mascot will be out and about across the province for photo opportunities.”

Why it matters

Air Ambulance NI delivers a vital Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS), providing critical care across Northern Ireland, 365 days a year.

• The service responds to emergencies seven days a week, reaching patients in life-threatening conditions within just 25 minutes.

• It costs approximately £8,000 per day to keep the team operational.

• Since its launch in 2007, Air Ambulance NI has completed around two missions daily, saving countless lives by providing rapid intervention where every second counts.

The charity relies heavily on community fundraising and donations to remain airborne. Events such as Tesco’s “Turn Red” day highlight the importance of public support in sustaining this lifesaving service.

Supporting a lifesaving cause

With hundreds of critical call-outs each year, Air Ambulance NI fills a vital gap in emergency healthcare, ensuring patients in remote and rural areas can receive urgent treatment as quickly as those in towns and cities.

Families, shoppers, and children are encouraged to take part in Saturday’s activities and show their support by donating what they can.