TWELVE disabled children from Swindon could be heading for a trip of a lifetime.

A dance is being held on Saturday to raise funds for the trip, which would enable the children to take a pilgrimage to Lourdes, in France.

The children are all from the Catholic parishes of St Mary's, St Peter's, Holy Family and Holy Rood.

The trip is being organised by the town's branch of the Pilgrimage Trust.

Saturday's dance, at the Thistle Hotel, has been arranged by the Moloney School of Dancing.

Patsy Moloney, whose daughter runs the school, said: "I think it's a fantastic cause, but unfortunately because of the disaster in Asia I think people have recently paid out quite a lot. But I am a great believer in charity beginning at home.

"For some of these children it will be their first and only holiday.

"As well as visiting the shrine at Lourdes they will be taken on day trips. They need £5,000 for the trip, because of the need for wheelchairs and helpers.

"I hope we will get a fantastic crowd to support these children."

The dancing, at the Thistle Hotel in Fleming Way, will be from 8pm to 1am.

Music will be provided by Seamus Moore and his JCB band. There will be displays of Irish dancing, and a late bar till 1am.

Tickets, costing £8, will be available on the door, or by calling 01793 642368.