Charity car pull for Flying Christine III
3 August 2026
Volunteers from the Flying Christine crew are setting out to pull their floating car along Guernsey’s east coast to raise funds for the marine ambulance before they embark on their challenge to sail the marinised vehicle across the Little Russel to Herm and then onto Sark.
The car pull is due to take place on Sunday 9th August, starting on Bulwer Avenue and finishing at the old lifeboat slipway by Boatworks on Castle Emplacement. The team will be met in town by Guernsey’s Lieutenant Governor, His Excellency Sir Richard Cripwell, who will officially launch the car ahead of the crossing which is due to take place later this month.
The bright yellow car has been converted by marine ambulance volunteers over the past few months with the support of local businesses. It is hoped the car pull will not only raise awareness of the challenge and attract more sponsorship for the event. Monies raised will help keep the Flying Christine maintained and operational so it can continue its lifeline service carrying paramedics to the other islands of the Bailiwick and transporting the sick and injured for further care in Guernsey.
Organiser Gary Ward, who was part of the team which undertook a similar challenge more than 30 years ago said: “We have spent many hours during the winter and spring to get the car ready. We have completed a series of float test, which have all been successful. There have been some modifications and improvements, but we are ready to set sail. The car pull will give people a chance to see the car, get behind the project and donate to the marine ambulance. Hopefully lots of people will come out to support us or meet us in town.”
“The Flying Christine III is a charitable asset and this boat along with its predecessors have saved countless lives over the years. It has delivered life-saving treatment and transported many very ill people to hospital. It has also seen new lives being brought into the world. That is only possible thanks to the support and generosity of the public.”
Crewmate Paul Philips added: “We’ve had lots of support from local businesses and people who have donated or sponsored the car so far, but what we really need is a big sponsor or two who wants to get their name all over the car to help boost the fundraising.”
“We are also offering corporate places on the support boat, provided by Herm Trident, for any sponsors who want to be part of the flotilla which will follow the boat on the crossing and join us for a barbecue on Herm.”
Any businesses or individuals who wish to sponsor the car can contact Paul Philips on 07781 116309 or email ambulance.rescue@ambulance.gg. Donations can also be made by clicking ‘Support the Flying Chistine III marine ambulance’ via ambulance.gg or in person at the ambulance station on the Rohais.
The car pull is scheduled to start at 11:30 and arrive in town by 14:30.
