Picture Ref: 77232-82SWINDONIANS helped six continents and 60 countries celebrate World Tai Chi Day.

Enthusiasts gathered in the Town Gardens, in Old Town, on Saturday to demonstrate some of the styles involved.

People were also able to take advantage of free taster sessions.

Graham Pritchard, 45, who organised the event, said the celebration had been held for the past couple of years.

"It is lovely to celebrate the art," he said. "It is a beautiful art an ancient martial art which is good for fitness.

"Today is a beautiful occasion with people coming together of all nations and beliefs.

"It is very good for your health, with studies showing that it can help conditions like arthritis and some of my students are aged in their 80s."

Mr Pritchard, of Exeter Street, who has been teaching people since 1996, holds classes in Swindon, including one for beginners at the Nythe Community Centre on Monday evenings from 6.30pm to 7.30pm.

For more information about his classes phone 07855 977904.