Tributes to charity's 'true gentleman' and 'visionary' life president who was instrumental in developing county's air ambulance services

Hugh Meynell MBE, was the first chairman of the County Air Ambulance Trust, as well as a trustee of the charity, and later its life president.

Mr Meynell was instrumental in developing vital air ambulance services for the county, and the country, after the trust was set up in March 1992.

The charity has described his 'pivotal' role in its growth, and its sadness at his death, on January 15, at the age of 94.

A statement from the charity explained Mr Meynell's key role in supporting the growth of the lifesaving services and infrastructure.

It said: "The County Air Ambulance Trust was launched in March 1992 to raise much needed funds to help secure the future of the region’s first red air ambulance helicopter, Air 5 based at Halfpenny Green Airport and now known as Midlands Air Ambulance Charity.

 "As Chairman of the Trust, which has now raised over £100 million, Hugh played a pivotal role in ensuring the charity’s growth and success.

"His leadership facilitated the funding of essential operational and infrastructure projects such as air ambulance bases at both RAF Cosford and at Strensham on the M5, as the local air ambulance service grew.

"From 2009 onwards, his guidance was instrumental in the development of vital lifesaving helipads at NHS hospitals right across the country through the Trust’s HELP Appeal.

 "The first NHS hospital helipad, funded by the HELP Appeal, was in 2009 at the Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Hospital.

"It subsequently funded helipad upgrades at the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital and the Princess Royal Hospital, Telford and has since funded more than 50 more helipads, which have seen over 29,000 landings.

"In addition, the Trust has helped fund more than 15 helipads at air ambulance airbases nationwide and 30 Critical Care Cars, used when air ambulances are unable to fly."

Paying tribute to Mr Meynell, Michael Henriques, Chairman of the County Air Ambulance Trust said: "We are deeply grateful for Hugh’s unwavering leadership and invaluable contributions.

"His passing is a great loss, and he will be sorely missed by colleagues, supporters, and the many lives he touched throughout his distinguished career. Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time.”

Robert Bertram, Chief Executive of the HELP Appeal said Mr Meynell's legacy was of "unwavering commitment" to making sure emergency care was the best it can be.

He said: "Hugh was a visionary individual, a true gentleman and a great leader.

"His tireless commitment to the charity’s mission of supporting helicopter-led emergency medical services has made an enduring impact on the lives of countless individuals.

"His passion for service and helping the most critically ill across Shropshire and beyond will never be forgotten.

"Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of working with him.

"He leaves behind a legacy of compassion and an unwavering commitment to making emergency care in this country the best it can possibly be.”

In his life beyond the County Air Ambulance Trust Mr Meynell was well known across Shropshire.

He was Chairman of St John Ambulance for nine years, Chairman of the Rural Development Commission for three years, and in 1990 was appointed as a High Sheriff of Shropshire.

His longstanding dedication to the community was recognised in 1999, when he was awarded an MBE for services to the community in the Queen’s Honours list.

Mr Meynell was also President of the Shropshire Horticultural Society in 2011 and in the same year he received an honorary degree from the University of Wolverhampton conferred in recognition of his entrepreneurial flair and business leadership.

The trust added: "His contributions have had an enduring impact on emergency services and the charity sector, and his legacy will be felt for years to come."