Jamie Arrowsmith – Wednesday 12th August 2026 – 2.20pm
A newly qualified paramedic from West Midlands Ambulance Service is preparing to tackle one of the UK’s highest peaks to raise money for two charities close to his heart.
James Doyle, who works from the Trust’s Willenhall Hub, will be joined by a colleague on Saturday (15th August) as they climb Snowdon in aid of The Little Princess Trust and The Ambulance Staff Charity (TASC).
Originally from Telford, James began his ambulance service career as a Call Handler in Stafford, before qualifying as a paramedic.
The challenge follows a similar fundraising effort in 2019, when James donated his hair to The Little Princess Trust and raised money for the mental health charity Mind.
James said: “I originally grew my hair because I was struggling with my mental health, but I decided that when things improved, I wanted to turn something difficult into something positive by donating it. That’s exactly what I did.
“This time, I wanted to support The Little Princess Trust again, while also raising money for TASC after seeing colleagues struggle with their own mental health and, sadly, the impact suicide can have. If I can do anything to help, I will.
“I’ve jokingly set myself a ridiculous challenge. If I hit my fundraising target and my TikTok and Instagram posts on OfficialJamesWMAS reach 50,000 likes, I’ll shave all my hair off and go completely bald – even though I really don’t want to!
“Ultimately, though, it isn’t about going bald. It’s about raising as much money as possible for two amazing charities.”
The Little Princess Trust provides free, real-hair wigs to children and young people who have lost their hair through cancer treatment and other medical conditions, while TASC offers wellbeing, mental health and financial support to current and former members of the UK ambulance community and their families.
Although James admits he isn’t a natural mountain climber, he has been preparing for the challenge by walking up The Wrekin near his home, completing weighted walks around his local area and making healthier lifestyle choices.
He added: “I’m definitely not the fittest person, but I’ve been training by climbing The Wrekin, walking with a weighted vest and eating all the healthy foods I’d usually avoid!”
Every donation, no matter how big or small, will help support the vital work of both charities and the team hopes the local community will get behind their challenge. You can donate via the fundraising page.
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