Devizes mayor Pete Smith stopped the traffic in the town centre on Saturday morning to ease the passage of a charity cycle team as it sets off for Paris.

The cyclists from Bag4Sport Foundation hope to raise around £5,000 to boost grassroots sport.

Bag4Sport director Andy Trusler, committee member Paul Buckingham and Gary Wilkinson were waved off by supporters from outside The Bear Hotel on the first leg of their journey.

Coun Smith said: “I think it is a wonderful community charity.

“I am delighted to be here to send them off.

“I am seriously considering going into training to take part myself next year.

“I think it would be great if I could contact the Mayor of Paris and have a civic welcoming committee in France in 2014.”

Also among the send-off party was Jason Caulfield-Ware, managing director of Oped UK, one of the Bag4Sport sponsors.

The work of Bag4Sport was highlighted on Friday when Foundation ambassador Grant Turner was a guest at Camp Xtra in Devizes.

International swimmer Mr Turner, who competed in last year’s Olympics and is now training for the Commonwealth Games, visited the holiday play scheme to the delight of coaches and children.

This year more than 200 youngsters have taken part in a wide range of sporting and craft activities.

Mr Turner, who grew up in Swindon, was on hand to present prizes donated by Bag4Sport to those who achieved most during the week.

He said: “It is fantastic to see so many children having fun taking part in sport and other activities.

“Bag4Sport Foundation is an excellent charity and can really make a different to youngsters and top class athletes.”

It is still possible to sponsor the riding team by calling (01380) 727273, emailing foundation@bag4sport.co.uk or texting to 70070 quoting BAGS44.