Fundraisers laced up their running shoes to take on a 5K 'shift' to help lifesavers.

For the third year running, the life-saving charity that is Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance held its 5K Twilight Shift fundraising run.

Supporters of the charity took part on the day, either running, walking or jogging the 5km route around Henstridge Airfield, which is the home of the air ambulance team.

Alana Hardy, Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance Events Officer praised the efforts of the participants and all those who supported the event.

She said: “What an amazing day we had for our third Twilight Shift.

"It’s such a special event filled with fun and laughter and there were so many wonderful stories of determination shared on the day.

"We were delighted that so many people came to support the charity and raise funds for our life-saving service.

"A huge thank you to everyone who supported the event or took part, we hope to see you all next year."

There was a light breeze as the participants got underway at 5.30pm, the time where the crew of Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance begins their ‘twilight shift’, to carry on their lifesaving work into the night.

Off-duty crew members took part alongside DSAA supporters and businesses, who ran, jogged or walked in memory of loved ones, as a personal challenge, or as a team.

Members of the DSAA crew with participants (Image: Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance)

Some of the more experienced 5K challengers also carried extra weight on their backs, just like the air ambulance team needs to do when attending an incident.

Alana Hardy added: “Our next fundraising event is our fantastic ‘Race from the Base’ ultra-cycling challenge, which takes place at Henstridge Airfield on Saturday, September 7. The event has three distances to choose from - 30km, 60km and 100km - and all routes will start and finish at the airfield.

"We’re really excited to build upon the success of last year’s challenge and will be opening online registration via our website on Monday, July 15.”

Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance would like to thank all of those who supported the event including Henstridge Airfield Clubhouse and Café, Albert Goodman, HK Law, 918 Coffee, Devon Freewheelers, Events Crew, Dorset Police and Life Support CPR Awareness and Training.