STAFF at Wiltshire-based software firm CODAScisys have taken the plunge at their local swimming pool in order to help raise thousands of pounds for local cancer patients.

It was the brainchild of CODA Group chairman Graham Steinsberg who took the lead by swimming five thousand metres as part of a Swimathon in support of Macmillan Cancer Relief.

His colleagues joined in, swimming a further ten thousand metres as a team, and their total of fifteen thousand metres raised an impressive £3,000 which was presented to Macmillan Cancer Relief in Chippenham.

Graham Steinsberg said. "It was quite a challenge for all of us and I must admit that by the end, each lap seemed to last for ever.

"However, we all enjoyed the challenge and I'm delighted that we were able to raise so much money for this worthy cause"

Bindy Collins, local chairman of Macmillan said: "I really can't thank the CODA staff enough for making this fantastic effort.

"It's a super sum of money."