Surfer Redirects Fundraiser to Air Ambulance After Criticism

Sam Brenchley, rescued after a near-fatal surfing accident, faced backlash for seeking funds for a new wetsuit but has now pledged donations to Cornwall Air Ambulance.

• Sam Brenchley was rescued at Fistral Beach on March 31 after being knocked unconscious by his surfboard and airlifted to Royal Cornwall Hospital by Cornwall Air Ambulance.
• Initially, Brenchley launched a fundraiser on April 2 to replace his wetsuit, which was cut off during the rescue, seeking £350 in donations.
• The fundraiser drew criticism from locals and rescuers, who argued that the funds would be better directed to the air ambulance charity that saved his life.
• After receiving a replacement wetsuit from a local surf shop, Brenchley updated his campaign, committing the £350 raised to Cornwall Air Ambulance.
• Cornwall Air Ambulance, which relies entirely on donations and requires over £8 million annually to operate, confirmed its involvement in the rescue and expressed gratitude for the redirected funds.

4 Articles

The Independent The Independent The Telegraph The Times