WILTSHIRE GWR FM and Age Concern Swindon have joined together to stage what could be the hottest local event of the year the Fire Walk Challenge.

The challenge takes place alongside the Town Hall in Regent Circus at 6pm on Friday, April 23 St George's Day.

The organisers promise a carnival atmosphere, with street entertainment, live music and children's entertainers, climaxing with the spectacle of 100 volunteers walking barefoot over hot coals.

On the evening of the event, each brave participant will take part in a two-hour fire walk training session, featuring physical and mental techniques designed to help them perform the feat.

And according to Jackie Kent, trust manager for GWR FM's Community Trust: "This event is going to be spectacular, not only for the teams and companies taking part but for spectators too.

"This is the first event of its kind in Swindon's town centre. There is only room for 20 teams.

"It is also a wonderful way to gain publicity for your company and a brilliant way to motivate your teams.

"That's if they have what it takes."

Jacquie Sheppard, fund-raising manager for Age Concern Swindon, was equally enthusiastic.

"I think this is a superb way to encourage local companies to raise money for local charities including Age Concern Swindon," she added

The event itself is being managed by Blaze, a company that has been staging Firewalks since 1983.

One early volunteer is Barry Lingard, who is chief executive for Swindon Initiative.

He said: "This is a 'red hot' event and a fantastic way for companies in Swindon to be part of a unique experience slap bang in Swindon's town centre.

"So many fundraising activities can be a bit run of the mill but this one really sets the imagination on fire "

For further information on how you can enter a team, call the Firewalk hotline on 01793 842600 or log onto www. musicradio.com.