The Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS) has received a legacy donation of more than £80,000.

It was donated by Frank Barker, a "modest" joiner and undertaker from Calderbridge, who ran his own business and had an enduring love for motorbikes.

He sadly passed away in February 2022 at the age of 92.

However, he thoughtfully included a donation in his Will for GNAAS, totalling £80,872.32.

A lifelong motorbike enthusiast, Mr Barker was aware of GNAAS's vital work responding to motorcycle incidents and had previously supported the charity through purchasing raffle tickets and playing their lottery.

Mr Barker's cousin, Sally Ingall, was the executor of his will.

She recently visited GNAAS's base in Langwathby, Penrith, alongside her son Bryan Ingall.

They learnt more about the operations of the charity and the impact the donation will create.

News and Star: Frank Barker aged 21

Mr Ingall said: "Frank was a very quiet guy and very modest.

"He was a countryman, enjoyed fishing, and went to the pub quite regularly for the company."

He added: "His passion was motorbikes and always had been since he was a young man, after he came back from the RAF."

Ms Ingall echoed her son's sentiments and said: "He was a lovely fella, good fun and good for the craic because his age meant he could remember really far back."

Following their donation, the Ingalls were given a tour of the GNAAS air ambulance by the charity's critical care team.

Mrs Ingall was awestruck by the efficiency of the operation.

She said: "I was astounded by the space inside the helicopter.

"The amount of equipment they have, including surgical equipment and a tiny ultrasound scanner, is just amazing".

She added: "It’s nice to know Frank’s contribution will help GNAAS continue to operate.

"If the money saves anybody’s lives that’s wonderful."

The GNAAS is primarily funded by donations and rely on the generous gifts from individuals like Mr Barker to run their service.

The helicopter can reach any place in its region within 15 minutes.

It can transport patients to hospital within 60 minutes, giving many the best chance of survival.

To find out more about leaving a donation in your will, visit the GNAAS website.