Family donation to Air Ambulance in memory of father-of-three

Family donation to Air Ambulance in memory of father-of-three

19 February 2025

A DOWNPATRICK man, who tragically lost his life in a road traffic collision a year ago, has been remembered through a heartfelt fund-raising event.

Mark Murphy, a 36 year-old father-of-three, died after the lorry he was driving, collided with a bus on the Rathfriland Road, Newry, on February 22.

Mark Murphy received care from the Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) team at Air Ambulance NI, alongside their colleagues at Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, but later died in hospital as a result of his injuries.

In his memory, the McLeigh family arranged a skittles competition at the Castle Inn in Ballynoe. Thanks to the incredible support of family, friends and the community in and around Downpatrick, the event raised the outstanding amount of £6,326.20 for Air Ambulance NI.

Mr Murphy, who was an employee of Down Drains, was well-known and highly regarded in his community, which was reflected in the generosity shown during the fund-raiser.

The McLeigh family expressed their gratitude to the Castle Inn ladies’ skittles team, as well as to everyone who donated and participated in the event to honour Mr Murphy’s memory.

Amy Henshaw, Area Fundraising Manager at Air Ambulance NI, said: “It was a pleasure meeting Mark’s family to receive such an incredible donation in his memory.

“We are humbled that his family could come together and fundraise for the charity through their own grief, and for that, we are entirely grateful.

“This phenomenal donation will go towards helping the next patient in critical need.” 

Air Ambulance NI operates the Helicopter Emergency Medical Service in partnership with the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service.

The service provides urgent medical assistance throughout the province, operating seven days a week, 12 hours a day. The HEMS team delivers emergency pre-hospital care directly to patients who are seriously ill or injured, with the goal of saving lives, brains, and limbs. 

The aircraft can reach any location in Northern Ireland within approximately 25 minutes, and on average, the medical team is called upon twice daily. Incidents include road traffic collisions, workplace and farm accidents, sports injuries, or serious medical emergencies.

Air Ambulance NI must raise £2.5 million annually to sustain this vital service. Public donations are crucial, and one way to support is by joining Club AANI, a membership programme offering the option of monthly or annual subions.

Patients or families who have been assisted by the HEMS team are welcome to visit the airbase. To arrange a visit, contact Air Ambulance NI at 028 9262 2677.

For further information go to www.airambulanceni.org, email info@airambulanceni.org, or call 028 9262 2677.