MAGNA West Somerset Housing Association’s social committee recently presented Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance with a £300 cheque.

The money was donated because of savings made on their annual Christmas party.

Housing officer Bridie Screen, who helped organise the event, said: “Staff member Paul Duncan kindly offered to provide the disco for our Christmas party for free.

“He regularly DJs at Northern Soul events in the South West and is well-known as a great DJ, so we were really pleased when he offered.

“Because we didn’t have to pay for someone to provide the disco, the social committee decided to donate the money to the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, one of the charities Paul regularly fundraises for.”

Mr Duncan said: “I enjoy raising money for many charities through the events I organise.

"I was happy to help with the staff party and I’m very pleased with the donation to Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. Thank you to all involved.”

Communications manager for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, Tracy Bartram, said: “We would like to thank Magna’s social club for their kind donation.

“The Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance receives no direct funding from the Government or the National lottery and relies on the public for support.

"Our operational costs are currently over £2m a year and the approximate cost per mission is £2,500.

"These costs will most certainly rise in 2017 when we take delivery of our new larger helicopter to replace our existing EC135 which has night flying capabilities and we extend our operating hours from 7am to 2am.

“Every donation we receive really does make a difference in helping us to continue saving lives.”

Magna West Somerset housing association owns and manages more than 2,100 homes across West Somerset and Devon.