Islanders are invited to light up the night when Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance's (HIOWAA's) Dash in the Dark event returns to Newport later this year.

The popular night-time charity 5km fun run is back at Seaclose Park, Newport, on Saturday, October 5.

Last year, more than 400 people turned out to help raise £17,500 – enough to fund five HIOWAA emergency missions.  

One of those participants, Gilly Harland, suffered a fractured skull and shoulder when she was involved in a road traffic collision on Newport Road in October 2023.  

Here's how to get tickets to Dash in the Dark at Seaclose Park, Newport

To get tickets to Dash in the Dark, click HERE.

Ticket prices have remained the same price as last year’s event, with adult tickets costing £20 and children (5-15 years) £16.

Gilly was airlifted from St Mary's Hospital to University Hospital Southampton where she underwent an operation to aid in her recovery.  

She said: “The air ambulance team not only airlifted me to University Hospital Southampton for vital care that I couldn’t get at St Mary’s, but they have offered aftercare to aid in my recovery. 

"I'm looking forward to lining up with hundreds of supporters on the night to raise money and awareness for the charity that helped me and continues to help thousands of others." 

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance Director of Income and Engagement, Keith Wilson, said: “We have been night flying since January 2016.

"Last year, 29 per cent (534) of our emergency calls happened under the cover of darkness.

"A huge thank you to everyone who continues to champion this event and our charity, helping us save lives every day.” 

Participants of all ages are encouraged to wear their brightest clothes, funkiest fancy dress, neon face-paints and bring fluorescent glow-sticks.

If signing up today, you will receive a free Dash in the Dark T-shirt.

At the finish line, you willl also receive a glow in the dark medal.

Check in on the night will open at 5.30pm and the warm up will start at 6.30pm, with the 5km dash beginning at 6.45pm, as darkness falls.