The iron gates at Shepton Mallet Prison are closing once again – but this time, the inmates are CEOs, consultants and councillors from across Somerset and Dorset. It’s all part of Jail or Bail, a tongue-in-cheek challenge to raise cash for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance – and this year’s line-up of unlucky “prisoners” has just 24 hours to secure their release. Their crimes? Questionable office habits, chocolate-related offences and a suspicious fondness for cheese. The punishment? A night in Britain’s oldest prison, complete with gruelling chores, ghost tours and escape rooms. Each inmate has been handed a bail target of £800 – and they’ll need the public’s help to raise it if they want out. Leading the charge is Charles Hackett, chief executive of the air ambulance charity itself – banged up for “being way too choosy about the office tea.” Joining him are: Helen Haxell, principal consultant at AxeSharp Communications – “Loves ghosts by day, terrified by them at night.” Jason Fewell, engineering boss at Wyke Farms – charged with “cheese theft, drink smuggling and DJ-ing disasters.” Mark Bolton, principal of Yeovil College – “Too energetic and helpful – makes the rest of us look bad.” Joseph Hughes and Mark Chugg from Greenslade Taylor Hunt – guilty of “too much sarcasm” and “mug drama.” Paul Dunlop, Blanchards Bailey LLP – “Being a lawyer – say no more.” David Crew, Somerset Chamber of Commerce – “Office chocolate hat neglect.” Cllr David Woan, Somerset Council – “Excessive enthusiasm.” The event kicks off on Thursday 10 July, and from midday, the nine will be locked inside Shepton’s infamous slammer until they hit their bail target. The public are being urged to chip in, cheer them on, or share their story online to help the group hit their fundraising goal – and escape the cellblock. The Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance team will be sharing updates as the drama unfolds – including footage of chores, ghost hunting and prison life – so get ready to follow along on social media. Because while the crimes might be fake, the cause is very real – and every penny raised helps keep this vital emergency service in the air.