SHOPPERS at Asda Wal-Mart are being urged to help local charities as well as give themselves the chance of winning a washing machine.

The proceeds of the raffle will help Swindon Cares an initiative set up to aid local good causes.

This year the fundraising drive will help the NSPCC, Age Concern and the Swindon Cancer Appeal, which is raising cash for Macmillan Cancer Relief.

Last month, people from around the town took part in a week of money-making activities dedicated to the scheme. Organisers set a target of £10,000 from the week but in fact £14,000 has been raised so far.

And it is not too late to increase that total. People have until Saturday to buy a £1 raffle ticket which enters them in the draw to win a Candy washing machine donated by one of the store's suppliers.

Joyce Arthur, events co-ordinator for the store in north Swindon, said: "We had the launch of Swindon Cares week at the store and it was a fab day. We thought we could do something else for Swindon Cares when we were given the washing machine." Swindon Cares is supported by Nationwide, Zurich, GWR Community Trust, BBC Radio Swindon, Rotary Club of Swindon, Swindon Council, the Swindon Chamber and the Evening Advertiser.

www.swindoncares.co.uk