Your chance to show you care (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Your chance to show you care

SWINDON Cares is about to get going once more and organisers are hoping as many businesses as possible will get involved.

The fundraising push is now in its third year and has become well-established as a source of vital funds for charities.

It is organised by businesses and organisations around Swindon, including representatives from the Evening Advertiser, GWR FM, Zurich, Nationwide, BBC Radio, Swindon Chamber, the Rotary Club of Swindon and Swindon Council.

Last year's programme of events raised about £22,000.

Swindon Cares vice-chairman Bill Fishlock said: "There are all kinds of things going on through the week, which is from July 10 to 16.

"We hope the programme will cover lots of bases and involve all sorts of different people."

Among the events are a treasure hunt bike ride for families, quizzes, singles events and golf days.

A focus for the organising committee is the company quiz night, which this year has been moved to the De Vere Hotel, in West Swindon, from its previous, smaller venue at the Winners Lounge at the County Ground. This time 40 teams are wanted.

Mr Fishlock, who is the quizmaster for both the pub and company quiz night, said: "We're really hoping to push this one."

Another major day is the Friday of the week, which has been designated as a "do something for Swindon Cares" day, with plenty of events ideas for businesses around town.

Rather than just holding a dress down day which is still nevertheless an option firms are encouraged to hold sponsored silences, sponsored shouts, a "shorts and shades" day, sell ice cream, or one of any number of fundraising stunts.

Mr Fishlock said: "It gives me a tremendous buzz doing this and seeing people from Swindon getting involved for good causes.

"The work that is put in is phenomenal and almost everyone who helps also has their own job to do as well. But they are so keen to help others in Swindon."

This year's recipients of the money include GWR FM's Community Trust, and Working For Opportunities in Swindon, which helps disabled people get into the world of work.

The other two beneficiaries are Swindon Threshold Housing Link, which has been helping the town's homeless for more than 30 years, and The Green Hut, a drop-in centre for the homeless in Gorse Hill.

To find out more and register for events visit: www.swindoncares.co.uk.