WEST Somerset residents will have the chance to say a public thank you to the area's air ambulance service for the part it played in the dramatic rescue of a Watchet baby at a marathon fundraiser in the town.

The special ten-hour community party on spring bank holiday Monday - May 27 - will raise funds for both the Devon and Somerset and Dorset air ambulances.

Sam Cooper-Stevens was just six months old when he was blown in his buggy into the freezing water of Watchet harbour in January.

Although the actions of marina dockmaster George Reeder, who jumped in and retrieved the buggy and local nurse Tanya Allen and coastguards who performed emergency cardiopulmonary resuscitation saved Sam's life, the swift response of a Devon Air Ambulance crew undoubtedly helped his long term recovery.

So Watchet musicians Ben Allen and Tony James came up with the idea of a massive fundraiser to thank the air ambulance service, which relies on donations to keep going.

The event on The Esplanade will feature more than a dozen local bands, street entertainment, car boot stalls, sponsored haircuts, children's activities and a grand raffle.

It is being co-ordinated by Watchet Summertime, which organises a range of events in the town each year.

"This should be a really special event which will enable the area's residents and families to say thank you for Sam's rescue and enjoy a community street party atmosphere," said its chairman John Irven.

"It seems an ideal way of raising money for our two local air ambulances which are entirely funded by donations and provide such a vital service free to us all in West Somerset."

Sam's parents Kate and Martyn will be playing their part in helping to make the day a success and Kate, a professional cook and caterer, will be running a home-made cake and produce stall.

"The quick arrival of the Devon Air Ambulance - it landed on the West Quay in dreadful conditions - was a vital part of Sam's survival," she said.

"We hope as many people as possible will come to the Esplanade party and give whatever they can to this wonderful service."

Molly Quint, events organiser for Watchet Summertime, said Sam's rescue and its happy outcome was still a major talking point in the town and the response to this way of thanking the emergency services had been amazing.

"All the bands and performers are donating their services free of charge because they want to make the day special," she said.

"Volunteers will be on hand to collect contributions and local traders who provide catering and refreshments will share their proceeds.

"We are hoping for a really good turnout from West Somerset and North Devon to ensure a really bumper donation to the air ambulances."

Organisers are planning to cater for all musical tastes, with the entertainment ranging from a brass band and jazz to shanty singing, Latin American and Irish jigs.

Among the special guests at the event, which runs from 2pm to midnight, will be Mr Reeder, whose initial selfless actions kick-started the rescue.

But he said it was no exaggeration to say that the air ambulance had probably saved Sam's life.

"The baby's temperature had to be raised as quickly as possible and the air ambulance crew had all the right equipment and expertise," he said.

"If we had had to wait for an ordinary ambulance, things could have been very different."

Caroline Creer, fundraising director for the Devon Air Ambulance Trust, said the incident had captured the hearts of everyone.

"We are so proud that the crew of our air ambulance played such a vital role in Sam's recovery and we would like to thank everyone for their support of this party," she said.

"Community fundraising events really are the lifeblood that keep our service going and enable us to save lives every day."

Anyone willing to help at the event or wanting more information should contact Mrs Quint on 01984 632592, Mr Irven on 01984 631083 or Mr James on 01984 633736.