CAN you come up with a witty name for a new air ambulance? Or do you have a personal story that might produce a moniker?

It sounds a ridiculous question, but resident are being encouraged to get their creative caps on to come up with a name for the new Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance helicopter.

The craft, the charity’s second helicopter, entered operational service in May following a fundraising campaign which involved thousands of people and businesses.

Now, in recognition of the community support, the charity is now inviting those who helped make it possible to choose a name that reflects the aircraft’s life-saving role across the two counties.

“Supporters are asked to submit their chosen name, along with the story behind it,” a charity spokesperson said.

“This could be inspired by their local community, a personal experience of the service, or what Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance means to them.”

Entries are now open and can be submitted via the charity’s website, by post, or in person at selected events organised or attended by the charity during the competition entry period, which runs until August 25.

Tracy Bartram, head of communications at Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, said: “As a charity-funded service, we rely on our supporters every single day, and they are at the heart of everything we do.

“We know just how much this new helicopter already means to people, so we believe it’s only fitting that the public help to name it and be part of its story in a really personal way.

“Every name entered will have a reason behind it, and we’re excited to see what people propose.

“We’re proud to give everyone the opportunity to leave a lasting mark on our new helicopter, which will help our team save lives for many years to come.”

How to enter your name in the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance helicopter naming competition:
• Online via www.dsairambulance.org.uk/heliname
• By post, addressed to Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance Naming Competition, Landacre House, Castle Road, Chelston Business Park, Wellington, TA21 9JQ
• In person at selected events organised or attended by DSAA during the competition period
• Terms and conditions apply

The closing date for entries is 11.59pm on Tuesday, August 25.

“The winning name will become part of DSAA history, carried on the aircraft as it serves patients across the region,” a DSAA spokesperson added.

“All eligible entries will be shortlisted before a judging panel will decide on the final name.

“The winner will receive a photograph opportunity with the helicopter, a behind-the-scenes airbase tour and an invitation to an unveiling event later in the year.”

For more information about the DSAA, visit www.dsairambulance.org.uk.

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