FUNDRAISING ideas are needed to help make Swindon Cares a success again.

The week of events will be held from July 11 to 16 and aims to raise thousands of pounds for good causes.

Swindon Mayor Derek Benfield, who helped launch the event last week, urged people to put their thinking caps on to come up with events.

He said: "I have attended many fundraising events over the past few months and the generosity of Swindon people never ceases to amaze me.

"I'm really pleased that Swindon Cares is going to continue for another year. Together we can make a difference."

Brewery boss James Arkell, the chairman of the Swindon Cares committee, said last year's fundraising drive had raised £15,000.

The money was donated to Age Concern, Macmillan Cancer Relief and NSPCC Swindon, with emphasis on funding local projects.

This year the target is £30,000. The money raised will go to the same charities, plus the GWR Community Trust.

Once again, Nationwide, Zurich, GWR Community Trust, the Rotary Club of Swindon, Swindon Council, the Swindon Chamber, BBC Radio Swindon and the Evening Advertiser are backing the initiative.

A website has been set up to keep people up-to-date with events. It can be reached at www.swindoncares.co.uk