Help name Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance’s new helicopter

Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance is inviting the public to help name its new life-saving helicopter in a community competition.

Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance has announced the launch of a competition to find a name for its new second helicopter which entered operational service in May.

Thousands of people and businesses in the local community helped make the arrival of the second helicopter a reality. In recognition of that support, the charity is now inviting the community who helped make this possible to choose a name that reflects the aircraft’s life-saving role across Dorset and Somerset.

Supporters are asked to submit their chosen name, along with the story behind it. This could be inspired by their local community, a personal experience of the service, or what Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance means to them. Entries are now open and can be submitted via the charity’s website, by post, or in person at selected events organised or attended by the charity during the competition entry period.

Tracy Bartram, Head of Communications at Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance said:
“As a charity-funded service, we rely on our supporters every single day, and they are at the heart of everything we do. We know just how much this new helicopter already means to people, so we believe it’s only fitting that the public help to name it and be part of its story in a really personal way.

Every name entered will have a reason behind it, and we’re excited to see what people propose. We’re proud to give everyone the opportunity to leave a lasting mark on our new helicopter, which will help our team save lives for many years to come.”

How to enter
•    Online: www.dsairambulance.org.uk/heliname
•    By post: Addressed to: Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance Naming Competition, Landacre House, Castle Road, Chelston Business Park, Wellington, TA21 9JQ
•    In person: At selected events organised or attended by DSAA during the competition period
•    Terms and conditions apply

Closing date
The closing date for entries is 23:59 (BST) on Tuesday 25th August 2026.
 
The winning name will become part of DSAA history, carried on the aircraft as it serves patients across the region. All eligible entries will be shortlisted before a judging panel will decide on the final name.
The winner will receive a photograph opportunity with the helicopter, a behind-the-scenes airbase tour and an invitation to an unveiling event later in the year.

Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance receive no direct funding from the Government and rely on the generosity of the public to deliver their life-saving work. For more information, please visit: www.dsairambulance.org.uk