Ref. 30805-54Young patients will be able to get on their bikes and ride their way to health thanks to a cash windfall from the staff and customers of Woolworth's.

The store, in Regent Street, Swindon, donated £1,300 to the children's unit at Swindon's Great Western Hospital.

The cash will go towards new play equipment, toys, and outdoor table and chair sets.

Natalie Prinsloo, of the hospital's fundraising department, received the cheque and took the opportunity to try out a few toys herself.

She said: "I would like to give a big thank you to all the staff and customers at Woolworth's for making this donation possible.

"This is really a very generous gesture, for which we are most grateful."

Maggie Freegard, play specialist at the children's unit, said: "This generous donation will benefit patients, siblings, parents and carers to provide seating and shade in the outdoor play area and additional toys for older children."

James Tanner, Woolworth's assistant manager, in Regent Street, said the money had been raised during a year of fundraising events.

"For one of the events we had an exercise bike in the middle of the store and people got sponsored to ride it," he said.

"We've also had face painting and fancy dress, as well as collection boxes around the store."