Good point

Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance (DSAA) has praised its special relationship with Bournemouth’s Castlepoint Shopping Park, which has seen more than £35,000 raised for the charity in the past three years.

DSAA communications manager Tracy Bartram said, “Castlepoint have not only raised a huge amount of money but have been instrumental in raising awareness of the charity in the area.

“Since we have been working with them, events such as Bag a Bra week, the Castlepoint Fun Run, and the Christmas car parking campaign have given us the opportunity to communicate face-to-face with the general public and a chance to explain the importance of the charity and the service we provide.

“Castlepoint have really put us on the map around this part of Dorset.”

An astonishing £22,000 of the total was raised through donations of textiles made by thousands of shoppers using the five dedicated yellow recycling banks located around the shopping park.

Tracy said, “This just goes to show how important textile recycling is to the charity.

“It is staggering that Castlepoint shoppers have helped generate this sum by donating their unwanted clothes, shoes, blankets, towels, and bras. They are the busiest banks across the two counties we serve.”

Castlepoint general manager Peter Matthews said the money raised was testament to the generosity of spirit shown by the large majority of shoppers using the 41-acre park.

Mr Matthews said, “We are proud to offer our support through on-going recycling initiatives which make a significant difference not only to the long-term care of the environment but the immediate saving of lives.”

More information about the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance can be found by visiting www.dsairambulance.org.uk or calling 01823 669604.