Residents across Burnham-on-Crouch and the Dengie are being urged to light up their homes this festive season to raise money for the air ambulance service.

The Lights for Flights fundraising initiative by Essex & Herts Air Ambulance Trust (EHAAT) sees homes across the county light up in aid of the lifesaving service, and many residents have already signed up to take part.

Emma Barker, head of income generation at EHAAT, said: "Essex and Herts Air Ambulance provides helicopter emergency medical services 24/7, so Santa isn't the only one who will be flying this Christmas.

"Lights for Flights is an amazing way to fundraise, and we would love to see more houses lit up in support of our charity.

"It couldn't be easier to take part - all you need to do is decorate your home or workplace inside or outside with festive Christmas lights then contact us for a festive banner and collection tin, which you can put outside your house for people to make a donation."

EHAAT is able to save lives thanks to everyone who volunteers, donates, fundraises and plays its lottery.

Last December, the crew attended 210 missions across the county and remained available at all times throughout the festive season.

The service is free of charge but, unlike NHS emergency services, it receives limited direct funding from the Government and none from the National Lottery.

It costs over £750,000 each month to run the service.

There are plenty of ways for residents to participate in EHAAT's festive fundraising initiative this year.

Emma said: "We would like to say a big thank you to all those who have supported us this year, and we are appealing to the local community to help us in any way they can this Christmas.

"There are many ways you can support.

"You can host festive fundraisers like mince pie mornings, Christmas jumper days, craft sales and carol singing, or buy tickets for our winter raffle.

"You can also purchase gift wrapping, Christmas cards, branded notepads and socks - a seasonal favourite - from our online shop at https://www.ehaat.org/.

"Our committed team remains dedicated, ready and able to save lives when someone is having the worst day of their life – even on Christmas Day.

"That's why we need support from the people and businesses of Essex this festive season.

"Whatever your fundraising idea, it all helps to keep us operational, and our fundraising elves are ready and waiting to hear from you to help your fundraising take off."

To support EHAAT's festive fundraising initiative, sponsored by estate agents Raine and Co, visit https://www.ehaat.org/festive/ or call the fundraising team on 0345 2417 690.