PEOPLE are being urged to dig deep to support a week of fund-raising for the County Air Ambulance and Birmingham Children's Hospital.

Next week's activities are aimed at raising money for the Danny Shew Appeal, dedicated to the memory of Daniel Sheward, who died in a car accident aged six months, earlier this year. He was flown by the Air Ambulance to the hospital where doctors and nurses fought to save his life.

Unfortunately he lost his battle, but his family are hoping people will back their short, sharp campaign to support these life-saving services. The County Air Ambulance in particular does not receive Government funding and relies on public support to keep its helicopters flying.

Gerry Burgess, Danny's grandfather who is co-ordinating the appeal, said: "If a lot of people give a little during next week it is amazing what will happen and how much we will raise.

"Anyone can join in with any activity they like, even if it is just a family having a 10 minute silence during their evening meal."

He has already been contacted by several businesses and schools who are organising events during the week, but urged people not to be put off if they could not to fit something in next week.

He said: "Although the main thrust is next week we wouldn't want people not to bother doing things if they can't arrange them until later.

"The collecting boxes will be around for two or three weeks."

Look out for the specially marked Danny Shew collection boxes in shops and pubs or make a donation directly to the appeal either by paying it into the account which is:

The Danny Shew Air/Hospital at the NatWest in Market Square. Bank acc no 15394670, sort code 60/08/44.

Cheques or postal orders payable to The Danny Shew Air/Hospital can be sent to the appeals secretary at Emily Lodge, Durcott Road, Evesham, Worcs WR11 6ED.