AN event based on a film about a legendary New York bar has helped raise more than £20,000 for the Midlands Air Ambulance charity. 

Coyote Ugly was a hit musical comedy-drama released in 2000 and centred on the Coyote Ugly Saloon in East Village, New York City, but it came much closer to home when nearly 500 party-goers descended on a farm at Upton Warren, near Droitwich, dressed as characters in the movie.

The evening was organised by members of the Worcestershire Hunt, who handed over a cheque for £20,086 to the Air Ambulance at the recent Hanbury Countryside Show.

Using charity buckets at Hunt events over the last few months and with numerous contributions via the group’s JustGiving page, the organising committee topped off its efforts by running the huge Coyote Ugly themed bash.

Hunt joint master Adrian Ward said: “We were delighted to present the cheque to this amazing charity. Our supporters worked hard to raise these funds for a hugely important service which might be needed by any member of our local community in the future. Not only have we raised crucial funds, but our supporters and their friends and family also benefitted from a fantastic night out at our Coyote Ugly Party.”

Michelle McCracken, Worcestershire fundraising executive for Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, added: “We’re very grateful to receive such wonderful support from this group, which will go towards funding eight lifesaving missions. Each of the mission's Midlands Air Ambulance Charity undertakes cost £2,500, and we receive no Government or National Lottery funding, so it’s fantastic that local community groups such as this help to keep our helicopters in the air and saving lives.”

Polly Portwin, head of hunting at campaign group the Countryside Alliance, said: “The Worcestershire Hunt have excelled themselves by raising a phenomenal amount for the vital service provided by The Midlands Air Ambulance.”