Herts Air Ambulance (HAA) is delighted to announce its new partnership with healthcare company Roche, whose employees have decided to raise all-important funds for the charity throughout 2009.

Roche have alreadyproved to be big community players; each year choosing a charity to support through various fundraising activities. Last year they supported The Willow Foundation and raised over £25,000.

Roche’s Corporate Affairs Manager Dean Capon said: “We are very proud to be supporting the lift-off of the Herts Air Ambulance as we have a shared passion for improving people's health and quality of life with innovative services. Staff have chosen Herts Air Ambulance as our 2009 Charity of the year and will dedicate all their fundraising efforts to this fantastic cause.”

The launch of the partnership between HAA and Roche took place on Thursday, March 5, when Nikki Caborn, Appeal Coordinator and Phil Grieve, Clinical Manager of Herts Air Ambulance gave a presentation about the Charity to Roche employees.

It was an extremely enjoyable day for everybody involved. Pilot Pete, official mascot of the Charity greeted guests as they arrived and in celebration of this launch event there were even special Herts Air Ambulance cakes available for employees.

That evening Roche hosted their first employee fundraising event of the year a bingo night. The evening was a huge success; raising almost £600 for the Charity.

Roche already have a number of other events scheduled throughout the year; including a 'Race Night' and a 'Strictly Come Dancing Party'.

Nikki Caborn said: “I am delighted that Herts Air Ambulance has been chosen as Roche's Charity of the year. It means a lot to the Charity to have this support; not only will it enhance both our profiles but it will enable us to raise much needed funds for the County's life-saving helicopter. Hopefully, this partnership will give other corporates the incentive to become supporters as well.”

Herts Air Ambulance relies on the support of local businesses to help raise funds and keep the helicopter flying. For more information on becoming a corporate sponsor visit www.hertsairambulance.uk.com or call the fundraising office on 0845 2417 690.