A HOLIDAY group has announced it will be supporting Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance and Dorset Mind in a dedicated fundraising drive this year.

Waterside Holiday Group, which operates parks in Weymouth's Bowleaze Cove, Portland Road at Ferrybridge and Osmington Mills, will host an array of fundraising activities throughout 2022 in a bid to raise a total of £25,000.

The activities will include the holiday group’s longest charity walk to date, with team members trekking from Chesil Vista Holiday Park to Corfe Castle in a 30-mile challenge in July.

Furthermore, the company is hosting a ‘Leadership Team Auction’, where employees are invited to make a silent bid on senior team members to switch jobs within the company for a day.

Read more: Weymouth attraction reopening after issues with landlord made future uncertain

General Manager at Waterside Holiday Group, Neil Quantrill said: “During these turbulent past couple of years, local charities have needed our support more than ever before and we’re proud to have continued our fundraising efforts.

“This year, we want to go the extra mile as we return to a more ‘normal’ routine, so have set an ambitious fundraising target to support two highly respected local charities – as chosen by our team.

“We believe our fundraising efforts should be a collective effort, which is why we’ve asked all our employees to share creative ideas for how we can reach our goal.

“I’m looking forward to coming together with fellow colleagues to help Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance and Dorset Mind continue making a substantial difference within our communities.”

Read more: Could you help new exercise track get lighting it needs for project in Weymouth?

Leanne Colverson, Community Fundraising Officer at Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance said: “Our operational costs are over £5m per year, with the approximate cost per mission £3,000 – and last year alone, our service was tasked to 2,016 incidents.

“With no direct funding from the Government or the National Lottery, we rely on the generosity of local businesses and the public to continue our lifesaving work, so we’re delighted Waterside Holiday Group has chosen to support us this year.”

Linda O’Sullivan, CEO at Dorset Mind said: “Our services, which include one-to-one and group counselling, mentoring, and a befriending programme, are a lifeline for thousands of people across Dorset every year.

“Waterside Holiday Group’s fundraising efforts will be greatly appreciated as we continue our vital work supporting the growing number of local individuals impacted by mental health challenges.”