VOLUNTEERS are needed to help the Great North Air Ambulance Service stay in the air.

The charity, which offers an emergency rescue service to people who can not be reached by a road ambulance, relies on donations to fund its work.

New area fundraiser for the charity, Carol Oliver, said: "The aim of the Great North Air Ambulance is to maintain and improve the medical response service in the region.

"This essential service is the only effective way to transport seriously ill or injured patients to a place of definitive care, thereby saving life and unnecessary suffering."

Mrs Oliver is looking for volunteers to run support groups, who would regularly hold small fundraising events in the region.

Volunteers are also needed to help with collections being held in the Cornmill Centre and Marks and Spencer, both in Darlington, in the next few weeks.

Athletic fundraisers who have gained a place in the Great North Run are also been asked to compete to raise money for the charity.

Anyone interested in helping is asked to call (01325) 487263.