AN AIR ambulance charity, which operates in South Gloucestershire and Gloucestershire is calling on the community for their support during National Air Ambulance Week.

As part of the annual funding initiative, which starts today and runs until Sunday, the UK’s 21 air ambulance charities come together to raise awareness of the work they do, with the Great Western Air Ambulance Charity (GWAAC) highlighting the service they provide for 2.1million people across the west country.

The annual fundraising initiative is organised by the Association of Air Ambulances (AAA), the trade body which unites air ambulance charities from across the UK, as well as operators and ambulance services.

Unlike some other air ambulance groups, GWAAC receive no day to day funding from the Government or National Lottery, and rely on donations in order to continue operating.

GWAAC’s head of fundraising and marketing Emma Carter said: “During National Air Ambulance week we’d like to remind our local communities that our charity relies on the support of the people we serve to continue flying.

“As no one ever knows when they might need our help, it’s so important for people to support our cause and help us to continue saving lives.”

To find out more about National Air Ambulance Week and to get involved with a fundraising activity, contact GWAAC’s fundraising team by calling 0303 4444 999 or emailing fundraising@gwaac.com.