TODAY is the first ever Dorset Day.

Organised by Dorset Community Foundation, the day aims to celebrate the Dorset's heritage while also rasing awareness of small charities living and working in the community.

The plan is to celebrate, raise awareness and fundraise for smaller local charities who provide vital support and services to those most in need within the local community.

These groups find it difficult to compete for funding against the larger regional and national charities.

The latest company to back the charity day is Ceuta Health, based in Bournemouth, who have been raising money for the community fund by holding dress down days and team building events.

Annette D’Abreo, Managing Director at Ceuta Health, said: “We are delighted to be supporting Do It for Dorset Day.

“Now, more than ever, there are people and organisations that need our help, and if we can improve our local community just a little, it has an effect on all of us either directly, or on people we know.

“Dorset is a wonderful county to live in, so let’s do it for our friends and neighbours.”

Tracy Melling, Operations Manager from the Dorset Community Foundation, said: “Do It for Dorset Day is a brilliant and fun way for local companies to raise awareness and support for local charities.

“We at the Foundation have the capacity to match all donations over £250 from government funding through the Communities First Scheme on £1 for every £2 basis, so £250 becomes £375.”

Ways you can join in

Wear yellow, red or white, the colours of the St Wite's Cross, Dorset's flag

Eat Dorset produce, like Blue Vinney Cheese

Bake a Dorset Apple Cake or have a Dorset Cream Tea