Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance (HIOWAA) is seeking new volunteers to support its critical work during its annual Volunteers’ Week, from today until June 9.

The charity, which supports life-saving operations across the region, will be hosting an information drop-in session for those interested in getting involved.

The session will take place on June 4, between 12.30pm and 5.30pm at Quay Arts, Sea Street, Newport.

Volunteers play a significant part in the charity's work, from delivering talks about HIOWAA’s crucial activities to local groups, clubs and schools, to participating in regional fundraising events.

The service is open to volunteers residing in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, regardless of the amount of time they can offer.

Dr Risto Talas, aged 55, from Portsmouth, who was critically injured in a 2017 traffic accident involving a four-ton truck, is a current volunteer.

His year of service with HIOWAA is a testament to his desire to give back to the same organisation that saved his life after his injuries, which included nine broken ribs and substantial internal damage.

New volunteers will receive a full induction and training program, with uniforms and travel expenses covered.

The team is called to an average of five missions daily, with each operation costing around £3,500.

These missions range from cardiac incidents to road traffic collisions, making the generosity of supporters and volunteers crucial to the charity's efforts.