DORSET and Somerset Air Ambulance has announced the return of its 100 Miles in October challenge.

Participants of all ages and abilities are invited to walk, run, swim, cycle, or hop their way to 100 miles throughout the month of October, all while raising vital funds for the charity’s life-saving service.

The challenge can be completed from anywhere, at any time, making it ideal for individuals, families, or teams looking to improve their fitness and support a great cause.

Rosie Cornelius-Light, fundraising officer, said: "Last year, the event raised an incredible £31,223.76 and we're hoping to take that success even further in 2025.

“With every mission costing approximately £3,500, every single pound raised makes such a difference, helping us to deliver critical care to those who need it the most.

“We cannot wait to see supporters come together, push themselves and join the 100 miles community!"

It’s free to sign up to the challenge, and once a participant’s fundraising page is activated, they will receive a complimentary ‘100 Miles in October’ T-shirt.

The charity encourages those who sign up to commit to actively fundraising - those who complete the challenge and meet their fundraising goals will also earn a special finishers medal and be eligible for fundraising rewards along the way. Participants are also encouraged to join the challenge’s Facebook group dedicated to tracking progress, share milestones, and cheer each other on.

Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance provide life-saving, pre-hospital critical care to patients in need 19 hours a day, 365 days a year.

The emergency service provided is funded by charitable giving. Last year, DSAA were tasked to 2,909 incidents, with each mission costing approximately £3,500.

Through challenges and events like ‘100 Miles in October’ the air ambulance charity hopes to raise the money required to fund its life-saving operations.