A CHARITY that takes to the skies to save the lives of casualties in Dorset is urging residents with mobile phones to send a text donation of £10.

The Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance is asking people to show their support of the service during National Air Ambulance Week 2012. National Air Ambulance Week (NAAW) begins today and runs until Sunday, September 30. It is an initiative put together by the Air Ambulance Association which unites not only Air Ambulance charities from across the country, but also operators and ambulance services.

Messages of support have been received by Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance vice patron Jenson Button and patron of the Air Ambulance Association Sir David Jason.

The Honda Owners Club (GB) has sponsored official NAAW wristbands and awareness is being raised by the support of local and National media.

Bill Sivewright, Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance chief executive officer said: “We are delighted with the response from the public so far and have already been contacted by supporters asking how they can help. “Schools are getting involved by holding mufti/dress down days and others are organising sponsored runs or bike rides with their friends and families. We are now appealing to mobile phone users and asking them to donate £10 towards the cost of flying for one minute – one minute’s flying time equals £12.50. We have set up a unique code which is easy to use.”

Anyone wishing to make the £10 donation by text should send the message DSAA02 £10 to 70070 – please note that there is a space after 02 and before £10. The charity receives no direct Government or National Lottery funding and relies on the public for support.

Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance has attended 8,999 emergencies since its launch in March 2000, saving many lives and aiding recovery with the speed at which casualties have been taken to hospital. So far during 2012 alone it has attended 456 incidents. Visit dsairambulance. org.uk.