FUNDRAISERS for the region's air ambulance service released 500 balloons in Darlington town centre on Sunday.

The event was arranged to raise the profile of the service, which relies entirely on charity donations to survive, as part of an awareness week that runs until this Sunday.

Barbara Walton, director of support services for the Great North Air Ambulance, said: "There are still a large number of people in the region who don't realise that the Great North Air Ambulance is a charity.

"We receive no Government or Lottery funding and rely on the generosity of the public to fund this life saving service. That's why we have decided to stage this awareness week."

People are being asked to take part in a Walking on Air challenge this week, in which sponsored walks are carried out on the charity's behalf.

Ms Walton said: "If people would like to take part in their own sponsored walk, all they have to do is think up a route and get some sponsors. We will provide entrants with a T-shirt and some sponsor forms."

For details, call 01325-487263 or Mandy Drake on 07974-302193.