Keys family urges public to support life-saving charity runway run at City of Derry Airport.

The City of Derry Airport 5k Runway Run, sponsored by H&A Group returns on Saturday 25 April 2025, offering a unique chance for participants to run or walk the airport runway in support of charity, Air Ambulance NI. The event welcomes walkers and runners, with every step helping to fund critical pre-hospital care across Northern Ireland.

The charity is highlighting the remarkable story of local man, Damien Keys, who sustained a severe brain bleed after a fall from height in 2022. Damien spent weeks in hospital but thanks to the swift response of Air Ambulance NI and dedicated medical teams, he has made an incredible recovery. Damien recently spoke about his experience and recovery in a heartfelt radio interview on BBC Radio Foyle on the Mark Patterson Show. Listeners can tune in here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002rgd8?partner=uk.co.bbc&origin=share-mobile

The Keys family will be attending the Runway Run to celebrate Damien’s journey and give back to the charity that helped save his life and are encouraging everyone to get involved, whether running or walking, to help raise vital funds for Air Ambulance NI. “Your support makes a real difference—please join us for a memorable evening and help save more lives,” the family shared.

The City of Derry Airport 5k Runway Run, sponsored by H&A Group begins at 8.00pm, with limited places available—early registration is strongly advised. Registration costs £25, with a minimum sponsorship or donation of £100 to help save lives, brains and limbs. Every participant will receive an official Air Ambulance NI technical running top, a finisher’s medal and chip-timed results. The event will also feature warm-up entertainment, refreshments, and free parking for participants. Sign up is available now: https://in.njuko.com/air-ambulance-ni-runway-run-city-of-derry-airport-2026

Head of Fundraising Kerry Anderson commented that the Runway Run is one of the charity’s most memorable events, combining a flat, fast course with a powerful fundraising purpose. “Running or walking along an airport runway is an unforgettable experience, but the real impact comes from the funds raised. Every pound helps Air Ambulance NI reach critically ill and injured patients like Damien when every second matters. We’re encouraging the local community to sign up, fundraise, and help save lives.”

Air Ambulance NI works in partnership with the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service to provide the Helicopter Emergency Medical Service which provides pre-hospital critical care at the scene of serious incidents and medical emergencies. The service responds to serious trauma and medical emergencies on average twice every day.

The service relies on public donations to cover its annual fundraising need of £3million. Involvement in events such as this one is pivotal to keep the helicopter flying when it is needed most.

Registration is now open: https://in.njuko.com/air-ambulance-ni-runway-run-city-of-derry-airport-2026 and further information is available at: www.airambulanceni.org/runway-run