Cornwall Air Ambulance Names Steven Webb as New Ambassador

Truro councillor and former mayor takes on official role with charity that saved his life

A man airlifted by Cornwall Air Ambulance after a life-changing swimming pool accident has been appointed as one of the charity’s official Ambassadors.

Steven Webb, a Cornwall Councillor in Truro and former Mayor of the city, was just 18 when he was left tetraplegic following the incident in 1991.
The air ambulance flew him from Truro City Hospital to a specialist spinal unit in Salisbury for emergency surgery, saving vital hours and, he says, saving his life.

“The charity means everything to me,” said Steven. “They were so instrumental; I probably would not have survived if I didn’t get to Salisbury.”

He added: “I had to go into intensive care and have a tracheotomy. If I wasn’t in that spinal unit I probably wouldn’t have made it. I’m here today and in my early 50s because of the air ambulance, and also because people donated and fundraised, a person put £10 in that bucket – that’s why I’m here today enjoying life.”

The Cornwall 500: 500 miles in an electric wheelchair

In September 2024, Steven set off on a challenge called The Cornwall 500, travelling 500 miles in his electric wheelchair around the entire Cornish coastline.

The journey raised more than £10,000 for the Heli2 Appeal, which aims to bring a second helicopter to Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

As well as raising funds, Steven used the route to promote accessibility, celebrate Cornish heritage and hear the stories of people he met along the way.

He said: “I don’t know of another charity that covers the whole of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, for every demographic – it doesn’t matter if you’re a six-month-old baby or in your 90s, Cornwall Air Ambulance is available to you.”

“Cornwall is an incredible place, the coast and these little villages, they’re all so unique and different. To have that charity which is saving lives in every part, you just know you’re safe. And right around the corner, a second helicopter!”

Joining a well-known group of supporters

Steven now joins a high-profile group of Cornwall Air Ambulance Ambassadors, including Richard and Judy, Dr Karen J Dickens, Jackie Stanley D.L., Jonathan McCulloch, Paul and Emma Ainsworth, and Gordon and Tana Ramsay.

“It’s quite overwhelming and I’m deeply grateful to be part of a charity that does so much for so many people,” said Steven.

“I’m proud to be part of a team that means so much to me, and so much to others. To be able to get the word out and help them save more lives is an absolute privilege. I will always champion them – what an amazing charity. They saved my life and they’ve saved so many lives.”

“Every time I bump into volunteers shaking a bucket, or the CEO, or anyone involved in the charity, they always leave you feeling better. They leave you feeling empowered that you’re part of something really special.”