HUNDREDS used their feet to show their support for the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance at the second 5K Twilight Shift.

The event, which sees participants walk, jog or run a 5km route around Henstridge Airfield – the home of the charity – took place on Saturday (September 23).

Organisers said it was a’joyous occasion filled with excitement, fun and laughter’.

Those who took part included off-duty crew members, former patients who had experienced the work of the air ambulance first-hand, while others ran, jogged or walked in memory of loved ones, as a personal challenge, or as a team.

Among them was Mike Revell-Quayle, who suffered a cardiac arrest while at home and asleep in May this year.

Mike was taken by road ambulance, accompanied by the air ambulance critical care team, to Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton.

After suffering two further cardiac arrests while in hospital and having a subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillator (S-ICD) fitted, Mike has since made a recovery and wanted to give something back to the team who helped him.

After completing the route with his wife, Shannah, Mike said: “The team at Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance saved my life; it’s such a worthy cause, saving so many people’s lives every day.

“When I saw the 5K Twilight event on their website, I wanted to take part so I could give something back and raise as much as possible for their vital work.

“We set an initial fundraising target of £200 and have raised nearly £300, so we’re really pleased to have beaten our goal.”

Many businesses also took part on the day, including representatives from HK Law.

Marketing director Geoff Bates said: “We had a team of six representatives take part and everyone really enjoyed the challenge.

“It’s been a fantastic day and lovely to see so many people turn out to raise vital funds for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.”

Alana Hardy, the charity’s fundraising events officer, praised the efforts of participants and organisers.

“What a fantastic turnout for our second Twilight Shift event,” she said.

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

“A huge thank you to everyone who took part and we hope to see you all at next year’s event.”

Online registration is open for next year’s 5K Twilight Shift, which will take place on Saturday, July 6, 2024 at https://register.enthuse.com/ps/event/The5KTwilightShift2024.