Porsche Centre South Lakes raise thousands from F1 screening

The family-run business arranged an opening night screening of the highly anticipated film, including refreshments and entertainment, and raised £4,000.

This is one of the latest fundraisers organised by the business after they first started supporting GNAAS in 2023.

Richard Smith, marketing manager at Porsche Centre South Lakes, said: “Over the years, we’ve proudly supported GNAAS through a mix of fundraising, awareness campaigns, and event partnerships. Whether it’s hosting open days with donation points, including GNAAS in our marketing materials, or raising awareness on our social media channels, our goal has always been to champion the vital role they play in our region. We have also included donations as part of our large events like our recent Exclusive Manufaktur F1 Movie Night.”

The centre, which is located off the M6 near Carnforth, looks after all of Cumbria and the North Lancashire region and is the oldest Porsche Centre in the UK, having been established in 1957 by the Parker Family.

In recognition of their support for GNAAS they were awarded Corporate Partner status, which is given to businesses who donate a minimum of £5,000 in 12 months to our charity.

Those who become partners receive personal help from our corporate team along with several benefits that are designed to boost a company’s visibility while showcasing their dedication to saving lives.

Richard said: “At Porsche Centre South Lakes, we believe in supporting organisations that make a real, tangible difference in our local communities.

“GNAAS was a natural choice. Living and working in the Lake District, we understand how vital it is to have rapid response medical care available in such a remote and rural area. GNAAS is often the difference between life and death in critical situations, and we felt compelled to play a part in helping them continue their extraordinary work.”

Over the last few years, several staff members from Porsche Centre South Lakes have visited our Cumbria base in Langwathby, Penrith, where they’ve had the opportunity to meet our critical care team and look inside our aircraft.

Richard said: “Visiting the GNAAS base in Cumbria was incredibly humbling. Meeting the pilots, paramedics, and support team gave us a much deeper understanding of the pressure, professionalism, and passion that drives the operation.

“One highlight was seeing the helicopter up close and hearing first-hand stories from the crew about real lives being saved. It was a powerful reminder of why this service is so essential and also shocking that there is no government funding for this vital service.”

Over the course of the last few years, Porsche Centre South Lakes have donated more than £15,000 to us, including auction prizes for our annual charity ball.

The centre’s point of contact for GNAAS is Natasha Banks, our CSR and Philanthropy Specialist, who works with the corporate sector and major donors in Cumbria.

She recently attended the centre’s sportscar together day alongside our community fundraiser Mieke Tennant, and they had a stand during the event to raise awareness of the work of our charity.

Richard said: “If you’re a business looking to support a cause with local impact and national importance, GNAAS is it. Every donation directly contributes to keeping the helicopters in the sky and the medics in action. Partnering with GNAAS isn’t just a good deed, it’s a lifeline for someone’s loved one. Supporting them is not only a privilege, it’s a responsibility we all share.”