AN AIR ambulance charity based in South Gloucestershire is giving the public the chance to visit their air base as part of celebrations for Chinese New Year.

Great Western Air Ambulance Charity (GWAAC) have made the invitation to welcome visitors to their air base in Filton on Thursday to meet their crew, find out about what they do every day and find out about their Great Wall of China Trek 2018.

The expedition to China will take place in September, with the charity team providing support to everyone who signs up to join them at every step of the way.

Guests on the information evening will have a chance to see the helicopter, find out more about GWAAC and understand why they need the public’s help to keep flying.

They will also find out about how they could take part in the trek and meet others taking part to find out about what's involved.

GWAAC provide the critical care and air ambulance service for 2.1million people across the counties of Bristol, Bath and North East Somerset, South Gloucestershire, Gloucestershire, North Somerset and surrounding areas.

On average their team of Critical Care Doctors and Paramedics attend five incidents a day, bringing the skills and expertise of an accident and emergency unit straight to the scene.

They are entirely charity-funded, and need to raise in excess of £3million every year in order to carry out their lifesaving work.

The event is free to attend, but spaces are limited. To find out more and book your place visit www.gwaac.com/challenge-trek-great-wall-china