Ref. 71277-06July 12: SWINDON CARES WEEK: DARK clouds and wet weather did little to stop the charitable efforts of Swindonians shining through at the beginning of Swindon Cares Week.

In spite of the weather, around 35 cyclists set out on the 25-mile course of the White Horse Bike Ride and treasure hunt at Stanton Park in Stanton Fitzwarren.

Joining in the fun was the High Sheriff of Wiltshire, James Arkell.

Participants were taken on a route around the countryside east of Swindon, and under the White Horse at Uffington, before returning to Stanton Park.

It was a big change from last year's Swindon Cares bike ride a tour of Arkell's pubs in Swindon and the surrounding area.

Jacque Sheppard, organiser of the bike ride and fundraiser for Age Concern, said: "It was a very cold, very chilly start for the cyclists on the morning but there was lots of enthusiasm from everyone. I think the cold weather did put a few people off."

Around 13 riders entered on the morning, and it is hoped that the combined efforts of that group, and those who had pre-booked places, will pull in around £1,500 for the Swindon Cares charities.

In the evening music raised the roof at Old Town's Christ Church.

Visitors packed into the 150-year- old church for the High Sheriff of Wiltshire's Charity Concert to hear soprano Lynn Hawkins and tenor Graeme Davison-Smith, perform songs from popular musicals. The audience also enjoyed a full repertoire of tunes from Swindon's Pegasus Brass Band.

Tomorrow night, a company will be named the brains of the town when the Swindon Cares quiz takes place at the Swindon Town FC Winners Lounge.

Swindon Cares week runs from July 11 to 16. Last year's fundraising drive brought in £15,000.

The money was donated to Age Concern, Macmillan Cancer Relief and NSPCC Swindon.

This year the target is £30,000 and the money raised will go to the same three charities, plus the GWR Community Trust, which will distribute its share among a wide range of local groups.

Once again, Nationwide, Zurich, the GWR Community Trust, the Rotary Club of Swindon, Swindon Council, the Swindon Chamber, BBC Radio Swindon and the Evening Advertiser are backing the initiative.

For details of events, go to www.swindoncares.co.uk

Anthony Osborne