Ref. 25670-62SWINDON CARES: A week of weird and wacky fundraising events has been launched to raise money for three charities.

Swindon Cares week aims to unite the community in helping the NSPCC, Age Concern and the Swindon Cancer Appeal, which is raising money for Macmillan nurses.

Shoppers at Asda Wal-Mart in Haydon Wick were treated to entertainment from GWR's morning crew, Heidi Humphries and Howard Taylor.

The pair pledged to broadcast nude on today's show if all Charley Bears teddies designed to raise money for the initiative were sold.

"We have had a great response," Heidi said. "I'm just hoping we sell all but one or two bears so I can keep my clothes on."

Meanwhile the Evening Advertiser vintage bus gleamed in the sun as Alfie the Alligator greeted young and old and gave away helium-filled balloons.

Childminder Dianne Doherty, 33, of Elm Park in Wootton Bassett, witnessed the fun with her three children James, 12, Tom, 10, and 21-month-old Jake.

"Swindon Cares is an excellent initiative," she said. "I've read all about it in the paper and wanted to come down to buy a couple of Charley Bears."

James, a Wootton Bassett School pupil, said: "Alfie is really funny and I like waving to him."

Erica Emery, 41, of High Street, in Haydon Wick, said: "I've read all about Swindon Cares in the Adver so there was no way I was going to miss out on my Charley Bear."

The Swindon Cares initiative is supported by Nationwide, Zurich, GWR Community Trust, the Rotary Club of Swindon, Swindon Council, the Swindon Chamber of Commerce and the Evening Advertiser.

The partnership hopes to raise at least £10,000 during the Swindon Cares week.

Fundraising packs are available, containing inspirational ideas as well as advice and money-making tips.

Contact Pam Webb on 01793 502450 for a pack, or email her at pam.webb@ uk.zurich.com

Internet link

www.swindoncares.co.uk