On Thursday 10th July 2025, the iron gates of Shepton Mallet Prison shut behind our brave participants as they faced a chilling night behind bars, and all in the name of charity. Our inmates, “sentenced” for fictitious crimes, were challenged to raise £800 in bail within 24 hours to secure their release.

Jail or Bail: DSAA’s corporate fundraising event

The challenge officially began at 12pm on Thursday, when the convicts began fundraising for their bail. By 6pm, the cells had slammed shut, and the challenge had begun. Throughout the night the inmates endured ghost tours, gruelling chores, escape rooms and spooky surprises.

Each inmate had a surprise tailored to their particular fears, skills, or dislikes. Posters of pigeons plastered the walls of an inmate claiming to ‘hate birds’, a Drake hater was subject to a special playlist including, you guessed it, Drake songs, and several inmates even had the pleasure of creating a painting - without using their hands!

Their fictional crimes may have been fun, but the goal was serious: to raise life-saving funds for DSAA.

Inmates raise bail 

Each participant truly earned their freedom, and their fundraising goals.

Together, the inmates have raised over £9000, and counting, for DSAA.

Thank you!

Our inmates managed to secure their freedom, and escape prison!

We’re beyond grateful to the participants, their sponsors, and every single person who donated. Your support helps us continue flying and saving lives.

Extra special thanks to our supporters, partners and volunteers: LFS, Carly Press and our amazing volunteer photographer, Will Badman.