An air ambulance charity has shown appreciation to its team of "selfless" volunteers - and it's calling on more people to join them.

Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance paid tribute to its volunteer team who freely give their time to do something worthwhile in their community.

The charity is now looking for more people to join the volunteer team from Dorchester, Bridport and surrounding areas of Dorset.

More than 120 people currently volunteer for the charity, performing a variety of tasks including supporting events, assisting with the management of nearly 2,300 collection boxes, attending cheque presentations and giving talks on their life-saving work.

Last year, their voluntary efforts equated to five and a half full-time staff that the charity would otherwise have to employ to fulfil these commitments.

Carrie Cardale, Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance fundraising manager said: "Our volunteers selflessly donate the ‘gift of time’, but they give us so much more.

"They are our eyes and ears within the community and their day-to-day interaction with the public significantly helps to raise awareness of our life-saving work. We appreciate every hour and every day that they donate, helping us to raise the £4 million a year we need to stay operational.

"Their support ensures that we are there for the patients who need us."

She added that volunteering gives people the opportunity to make friends and learn new skills.

"It can also help people stay active and there is a real element of personal satisfaction in doing something so worthwhile. We would be delighted to hear from anyone who would like further information or who would like to join us, especially within the Dorchester, Bridport and surrounding areas, where we urgently need additional help."

More information on the volunteer roles currently available can be found by visiting: dsairambulance.org.uk/volunteer or by calling 01823 669604.

Training is provided alongside ongoing support.