Nine people swapped freedom for fundraising last week as they spent the night locked inside Shepton Mallet Prison — raising over £9,000 for the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance in the process.

The challenge, held on Thursday 10 July, saw the group enter the former prison at midday, each aiming to raise at least £800 in "bail money" to support the life-saving work of the air ambulance service.

But their fictional crimes came with a twist: to be released, inmates didn't just need donations — they had to face a night of fear-based challenges, escape rooms, ghost tours, and other surprises designed to push them out of their comfort zones.

From Drake-themed sound baths to pigeon-plastered cell walls, the organisers tailored punishments to each participant's personal dislikes. One unlucky inmate who admitted a fear of birds found themselves surrounded by images of pigeons, while another who wasn't a fan of rapper Drake was serenaded with his music on loop.

The night also included more absurd tasks, including painting without hands and counting baked beans.

While the tone was playful, the cause was anything but. The group exceeded their collective target and raised over £9,000 — vital funds for a charity that relies heavily on public support to continue providing emergency medical care.

Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance thanked all participants, donors and supporters, with special mention given to LFS, Carly Press, and volunteer photographer Will Badman for their contributions.

The Jail or Bail event brought together a team of fundraisers, partners and volunteers in one of Shepton Mallet's most atmospheric venues, all in support of a cause that continues to save lives across the region.

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