A jailbreak is happening in Shepton Mallet, and it's all in the name of charity.

On Tuesday 21 May, 15 volunteer "convicts" will be locked up inside the historic Shepton Mallet Prison for a one-of-a-kind fundraiser supporting Reminiscence Learning, a dementia education charity. The only way out? Raise enough bail money from the public to secure their release.

Among those doing time is Richard McCourt, one half of Dick & Dom, who promises to bring his trademark chaos to the cell block. Also behind bars will be former BBC journalist Clinton Rogers, who will be reporting live from inside his cell.

The Jailbreak is a fully immersive event where participants experience a day in the life of a prisoner — complete with mugshots, an escape room challenge, and a jailhouse lunch that's a far cry from gourmet. Even Archie, the mascot of The Archie Project, which promotes dementia awareness in schools, is being locked up for the cause.

To get out, each "inmate" must raise a minimum of £500 in bail by asking friends, family and colleagues to sponsor their release. All money raised goes directly to Reminiscence Learning, helping to support people living with dementia and to fund intergenerational awareness work in schools across the UK. Participants set up a JustGiving page and can start collecting donations as soon as they register.

Supporters are encouraged to follow the drama online throughout the day and help bail out their favourite inmates. To donate or find out more, visit Reminiscence Learning's website or follow the event on social media using #Jailbreak2025.