THE Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance is planning a year of fun events to celebrate its fifth birthday.

The service started in March 2000 and has been called out on nearly 3,000 missions.

Director Nicola Howkins said: "We are calling all towns, villages, parishes, streets, pubs and clubs to organise a birthday party for us.

"We would like to hear from anyone who has either been rescued by the aircraft or who knows someone whose lifehas been helped by theDorset and Somerset Air Ambulance."

For more information, call Nicola on the fundraising hotline, 01823-351114.