WELLINGTON Monument will ‘light up’ as part of a wider event to raise awareness and funds for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.

The monument, which is the tallest three-sided obelisk in the world, will shine bright on Monday night (September 9) to mark air ambulance week.

September 9-15 is dedicated to highlighting the vital life-saving work of air ambulance charities across the UK who rely on generous donations from the public.

Emma Jones, Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance fundraising manager, said: “Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance is your local air ambulance charity, funded by you.

“Our incredible team of clinicians bring the equivalent of an intensive care unit to your home, the roadside, a field, a beach and often to the most remote areas of Dorset and Somerset.

“They are ordinary people bringing extraordinary care to people in their greatest hour of need and work so hard to save and enhance lives every day of the year. Thiscare is not otherwise available outside of hospital and only possible with support from the public and the kind donations we receive.

“With every mission costing approximately £3,500, this is a brilliant awareness generating activity.”

Last year Corfe Castle and Wellington Monument were lit up to recognise the work of Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.

Both have committed to do the same this year, with the addition Glastonbury Tor.

Wellington Monument is a tribute to the Duke of Wellington and all the military personnel that helped him to victory at the Battle of Waterloo. Its prominent location on top of Wellington Hill on the edge of the Blackdown Hills, has led it to become a symbolic marker in the area.