Daring London Ambulance Service medic takes fundraising to new heights with 400ft wing walk

A medic has raised more than £900 for the London Ambulance Charity after a daring wing walk at more than 120mph and 400ft above the ground.

Alex Fogarty, 22, an emergency medical technician at London Ambulance Service, was strapped to the wing of a biplane as he soared above the Kent countryside.

Video shows he even managed to give friends and colleagues on the ground a thumbs up and wave as he completed the thrilling stunt.

Alex said: “I wasn’t nervous until I was on the runway. I was strapped in and once we took off it felt like I was flying. I’ve never done was anything like it before but it was an amazing experience.”

The money raised will help London Ambulance Charity save more lives by funding public access defibrillators and CPR training, while also supporting the wellbeing of ambulance colleagues.

He said: “I’m really pleased to be able to support our charity this way. The wing walk was definitely one of the scariest things I’ve ever done, but it’s nothing compared with what patients and their families go through in an emergency.

“In the minutes before we arrive in an ambulance, people can save lives by starting CPR and using a defibrillator if there is one nearby.

“I’ve seen firsthand the difference those first few minutes can make, so I’m really pleased this challenge will help put more defibrillators into communities across London.”

People can still sponsor Alex by visiting his JustGiving page.

Jessica Burgess, Head of London Ambulance Service Charity, said:

“Alex is so brave! We were truly touched that he wanted to fundraise for us – and it was moving to hear about how the charity’s work can help both patients and ambulance crews during emergencies.

“Alex’s challenge highlights the variety of ways people can support the charity, and every penny raised helps us fund projects that save lives and support the wellbeing of our people. We hope Alex’s bravery inspires others to get involved.”

If you are inspired by Alex’s fundraising efforts but would prefer a challenge that will keep your feet on the ground, consider signing up for the London Life Hike. This family-friendly fundraising walk gives participants the choice of walking a 21km or 6km route round some of London’s most famous landmarks. It takes place on Saturday 26 September.