A FITNESS society has thanked its members after raising £1,000 for a vital emergency service.

The Great North Air Ambulance, which receives no Government funding, was given the money by Darlington Keep Fit Association.

The money was raised at events throughout the year, including a sale of homemade produce and hand-made greetings cards at Darlington Market in July, raffles at summer dance exercise classes, a sponsored walk and a silent auction.

The air ambulance covers an 8,000sq m area and relies fully on donations.