Ref. 30088-9DAREDEVIL volunteers from businesses around Swindon are wanted to walk on burning coals.

Kicking off the 22nd annual GWR Community Trust's Christ-mas Appeal which in total to date has raised more than £2.2 million will be a firewalk in front of the Town Hall in the middle of Swin-don.

And the organisers want YOU to join in the fun.

The GWR Christmas Appeal has become a fixture for Swindon and Wiltshire. Earlier in the year Swindon's first firewalk was held at the same place and was a roaring success with more than 50 people braving the walk, and hundreds watching in support.

The second has been organised for Friday, November 26 at 6.15pm, and will herald the month of fundraising that sees thousands of pounds raised each year to be poured back into local good causes.

GWR FM's Community Trust manager Jackie Kent said: "I am so excited this event was such a success earlier this year with both firewalkers and spectators vowing that they would take part if we ever decided to repeat it.

"Well, now we're doing it in aid of our Christmas appeal so join up. It is also a great way to gain publicity for your company and a brilliant way to motivate your teams if they have what it takes."

All participants are given a two-hour session to get them in the right mood to walk across the coals, which builds self-confidence.

To find out more about the firewalk call the (very) hotline on 01793 663060 or log on to www.musicradio.com

Does it hurt?

Firewalking doesn't hurt and there are proven reasons why it is possible.

Some people find it hot, while others report it feels like walking on snow

It is real fire, which on average burns at 1236F. Paper combusts at 451F and aluminium melts at 1100F.

The coals are a combination of pine, ash and oak, broken into a smooth red-hot path 20ft long and 3ft wide.

It takes between four and six steps to cross.