The glitz and glamour of the Cornwall Air Ambulance Summer Ball saw more than 200 people party the night away to raise money for the lifesaving charity.

The annual ball, held on July 22, is the biggest fundraising event held by the charity each year and this year there was a Cornish theme, featuring tin mines and tartan placed throughout the airbase, with Cornish tartan adorning many of the ball-goers outfits.

During the evening, guests had the opportunity to win a helicopter flight, along with a host of raffle prizes. Ball-goers could also bid on a selection of auction lots including luxury hotel stays and fine dining experiences, which had all been donated to the charity.

This week the charity also launched a new way for people to support its lifesaving work.

For the first time, supporters can set up a direct debit through the Cornwall Air Ambulance website to donate regularly, either monthly, quarterly, half-yearly or annually in order to help keep the helicopter flying.

Becky Wise, senior fundraising officer, said: “We have launched direct debit giving on the Cornwall Air Ambulance website to make it quicker and easier for people to donate. It’s a simple process that only takes a few minutes to complete, which people can do on their phone, tablet or computer.

“Donating regularly is a fantastic way to support the charity and ensure the air ambulance and its crew, who have saved so many lives, continue to be there for those in urgent need of medical care. A regular donation also means we know when donations will arrive, which allows the charity to plan effectively for the future and maintain the best possible service for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.”

Setting up a direct debit online means people can support Cornwall Air Ambulance on their own terms, with the chosen donation amount leaving the supporter’s bank account when they choose.

And regular supporters will be kept up to date with news and events as well as receiving invites to supporter days held in the hangar which gives them the chance to see the helicopter up close and meet the crew.

Anyone wishing to support the charity can go to cornwallairambulancetrust.org and hit the donate button.