THE Swindon Six are ready to ride again.

Previously the group, who all work in the town, have raised about £100,000 for the NSPCC by riding from Lands End to John O'Groats and running the London Marathon, and now they are training for a 124-mile row along the Thames from Lechlade to Teddington Lock in south west London, where the river becomes tidal.

Supporting the team in the Cotswolds to London row is double Olympic Gold medallist in the men's coxless four James Cracknell MBE who is team patron for this event.

He said: "The Lechlade to London row is a fantastic opportunity to support the vital work that the NSPCC carries out."

The money raised through sponsorship from the row will be used to help the NSPCC provide local services to children such as the NSPCC Swindon Centre which supports children and their families to recover from the impact of abuse.

The Swindon Six, who are part of Swindon Business Cares for Children, was instrumental in setting up the centre, which was opened by the late Princess Margaret 12 years ago.

Since its formation in 1992 Swindon Business Cares for Children has raised approximately £700,000 for the NSPCC.

The 'Cotswolds to Capital' row starts on Saturday, June 11 in Lechlade and is due to arrive at Teddington Lock in London on Thursday, June 16.

Team member Christopher Loveday, who is a consultant with property firm Dreweatt Neate in Swindon, said: "Because around 84 per cent of NSPCC funding comes from voluntary donations and fundraising, the NSPCC's work is heavily dependent on the kind of loyal support we have had for many years locally.

"It's only with the public's help that the NSPCC can continue its invaluable work helping vulnerable children. I would urge anyone who is interested in sponsoring us to call me on 07780 667016."

Property consultants Dreweatt Neate are also making a donation to the Swindon Six team and each of its 18 offices is supporting the team by gathering sponsorship.