The team at Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance has dedicated a special fundraising trophy for their upcoming ultracycling event to Hugo Yaxley, who was a keen cyclist.

Paramedics from the charity tended to Hugo at the scene of a road traffic incident in November 2020. He was airlifted to University Hospital Southampton to receive further treatment, but tragically died in hospital later that night as a result of his injuries.

Following Hugo’s passing, his brothers Thomas and Joshua Yaxley, along with friends and family members, have raised over £46,000 for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance to support their lifesaving work.

In honour of Hugo and the dedicated efforts of his family, the crew will present ‘The Hugo Yaxley Trophy’ to the participant who raises the highest amount in sponsorship at this year’s fundraising event, Race from the Base.

Speaking on the trophy, Thomas Yaxley said: “We are really touched that Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance have introduced this award in Hugo’s memory.

“The clinical team were there when we needed them the most; they gave Hugo a fighting chance and although he didn’t make it, they gave our parents a chance to say goodbye.

“That means more to us than could ever be conveyed by words, so it’s been a real privilege to raise money and awareness for them.

“Knowing that the funds we have raised have given others the same fighting chance as Hugo had, is a fitting legacy to an extraordinary young man.”

Race from the Base will take place on Saturday 10 June at Henstridge Airfield, home to Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.

Participants are challenged to cycle one of three routes – The Circuit (30km), The Cruise (60km), or The Climb (100km).

The event kicks off at 9:30am with The Climb, followed by The Cruise at 10:30am and The Circuit at 11:30am. There will also be a rider’s village and entertainment for spectators who are coming along to support the cyclists.

Fundraising Manager Emma Jones said: “We are so excited to be holding the first Race from the Base cycle challenge at our airbase in June. It really is going to be a fantastic event and we can’t wait to see everyone on the day.

“On behalf of the whole team, I would like to say a huge thank you to Tom, Josh and their family and friends, for raising such an incredible amount for us.

“We are so pleased to receive the family’s blessing to dedicate this special fundraising trophy in Hugo’s memory. We hope that it will inspire those taking part to raise as much as possible.”

Entrance fees for Race from the Base are as follows:

• The Circuit (30km) – £25 Adults, £10 Under 16s
• The Cruise (60km) – £35 Adults, £15 Under 16s
• The Climb (100km) – £40 Adults

All under 16s must be accompanied by an adult. The 100km route is not open to under 16s.

More details are available here.