RUNNERS will be taking part in a nighttime 5K charity fundraiser in a bid to save lives.

Dash in the Dark, organised by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance, takes place on Saturday at Southampton Common.

So far £11,500 has been raised from participants - enough to fund three life-saving flights.

More than 460 people have already applied, alongside 48 volunteers.

Among the runners will be Gwen Rickman, 63, who was rescued by the air ambulance in July 2021 after she aquaplaned off the M3 at Winchester.

She was flown to University Hospital Southampton and has now made a full recovery.

Gwen said: “Without the air ambulance, I wouldn’t be alive today.

"I feel honoured to be here; I’m a very lucky lady.

"I never thought I would need them. Hopefully I won’t need them again, but you never know.”

The charity event returns following a previous year of great success £36,000 was raised.

This funds the equivalent of 13 night-time missions.

A Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance spokesperson said: “To have such a big turnout is so important to us.

“The generosity of the local community is what keeps us flying and saving lives and we are incredibly grateful to them all.”

Adult entry costs £30 and children's entry is £25. Online registration has closed but people can sign up on the day between 6pm and 7pm.

Each participant will receive a free Dash in the Dark t-shirt to wear on the night, as well as a runner number and glow in the dark medal at the finish line.

Liberty Pride Cheerleaders will be cheering on the runners, with a school band - Fanatical - ready to help keep morale high.

Food stalls will be at the event, and attendees can buy official charity merchandise.

HIWAA recommend that any participants bring a torch for the run and a water bottle. There will be refill points in the Charity Village.

For more and to donate see hiowaa.org/event/dash-2022