Supporters are urged to lace up their running shoes and sign up for a shift to help lifesavers.

The 5K Twilight Shift is the latest fundraising event to support Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.

Taking place at Henstridge Airfield on Saturday, September 24, this event will involve people running, jogging, or walking 5K around the airfield, which is the home of the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance team.

In what is expected to be a truly memorable afternoon, the event will begin at 5pm; this is significant as it is the time when the crew begin the twilight shift and carry on their life-saving work into the night.

Supporters can enter as an individual, as a family, or a group. You can take part as a serious runner or simply use it to have fun and exercise.

Participants could even wear fancy dress, or for the more experienced 5K challengers, carry extra weight, just like the air ambulance team need to do, when they are attending an incident.

There are only 500 places available and the charity hopes that anyone who is fortunate to gain a place will use the opportunity to raise a minimum of £25 in sponsorship. Supporters who manage to raise £100 or more, will receive a special gift and all participants will receive a certificate after they have completed the event. The first 100 adults who enter will receive a free t-shirt (sponsored by Zoll) and the first 100 children who enter will receive a free water bottle.

Emma Jones, Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance Fundraising Manager said: “We are so excited to be launching our new fundraiser. So many of our incredible supporters explain how they would love to go to our airbase to meet our crew and see Peggy, our AW169 helicopter up close. As this event is being held around the airbase itself, those who are taking part may well see Peggy and our team leave on a mission, or flying home after helping those in need."

Register online via www.dsairambulance.org.uk

Entrance fees: Adults £15, under 16s £10. Children under16 must be accompanied by an adult.