The life-saving charity, Essex & Herts Air Ambulance (EHAAT), has announced the spectacular return of its flagship fundraising event, Strictly Air Ambulance. Following a hugely successful 2025 event that raised an incredible £58,000, the 2026 show promises to be even bigger and more dazzling.
A Night of Dance for a Critical Cause
Strictly Air Ambulance 2026 will take centre stage at the Brentwood Centre on Saturday, March 14, 2026. This beloved dance extravaganza is a key fundraiser for EHAAT's life-saving air ambulance missions across Essex, Hertfordshire, and surrounding areas. The charity is currently seeking a headline sponsor to join VIP sponsors, the Essex-based drink brand G&G Gallo, in supporting this glamorous evening.
Last year's event was one of the highest-grossing in its 13-year history, and the ambition for 2026 is to raise even more vital funds. Every ticket sold, every participant sponsored, and every donation made directly helps keep the charity's helicopters flying and its critical care teams operational on the frontline.
Star-Studded Line-Up and New Theme
The 2026 event will once again be hosted by the popular duo: EHAAT charity ambassador Lisa Snowdon and David Whiteley from ITV. This year introduces a brand-new "TV & Film" theme, with seven courageous local amateurs paired with professional dancers. These couples will perform routines inspired by iconic screen moments, all competing for the coveted Glitterball Trophy.
The evening will feature a total of 14 routines from the competing couples, plus special performances from Strictly Come Dancing star Vincent Simone and his professional partner Victoria Martin.
The Judging Panel and Competing Couples
A show-stopping judging panel will assess the dancers' sparkle and skill. It will feature television personality and influencer Dani Dyer, Chelmsford Dance Centre Director and Head Judge Phil Meacham, and British national professional showdance champion Ben Milan-Vega.
Dani Dyer expressed her excitement, stating: "I'm really excited to get the chance to channel my inner Shirley Ballas and be part of the judging panel at this year’s Strictly Air Ambulance extravaganza. The evening is going to be amazing and all for such a great cause!"
The seven dance pairs confirmed for the competition are:
- Gaby Giedraite (Colchester) and Bruce Lait
- Mike Flood (Brentwood) and Jody De’Ath
- Amelia Storey (Colchester) and Caleb Arslan
- Bradley Collyer (Potters Bar) and Terri Bodell
- Anna Staunton (Colchester) and Hayden Wise
- Dean Vale (Chelmsford) and Elise Meacham
- Sara Tupper (Heybridge) and Martin Adkins
Mark Jarman-Howe, CEO of Essex and Herts Air Ambulance, commented on the event's impact: "The energy, talent and generosity we see every year is truly inspiring. Last year’s total helped our crews reach more people in life-threatening emergencies, and we can’t wait to make 2026 even more spectacular. It’s a night that makes a real difference."
Tickets are on sale now and can be booked directly from the charity's website at https://ehaat.org/strictly/. All funds raised directly support EHAAT's critical pre-hospital emergency care services. Local businesses interested in supporting the event as a headline sponsor or by providing raffle and auction prizes are encouraged to contact 0345 2417 690 or email contactus@ehaat.org.
