SWINDON CANCER APPEAL: A DEVOTED Macmillan supporter turned her birthday into a fundraising event.

Ena Lewis takes her role as a Mac-millan committee member seriously.

Throughout her 30 years as the committee's secretary, she has baked cakes, brewed tea and ground coffee all in the name of charity.

Last month she turned 70 and celebrated by asking her guests to make contributions.

The result was £240 for the Macmil-lan Cancer Appeal.

She said: "I thought combining my birthday with a celebration for my 30th year at Macmillan would be a good idea.

"It was also handy because I have been refurbishing my house and lots of people keep asking me how it's going. So having a get together gave them the chance to see the finished effect."

Ena, who volunteers as a classroom assistant at Goddard Park Primary School, invited more than 40 friends and family to a morning coffee and afternoon tea party.

Ena, whose birthday was on May 10 while her party was a week after, said: "It was lovely to see such a mix of people in my home. I had my church friends from Queen's Drive Methodist, and some teaching friends, as well as my neighbours.

"I explained that I didn't want birthday presents but would like to collect for the Swindon Cancer Appeal instead. Everyone was so generous. Even those that couldn't make the party came by during the week to drop off donations. I'm thrilled."

Ena, of Kingswood Avenue, Park North, added: "The Evening Adver-tiser is doing such a marvellous job with all the stories about fundraising efforts.

"Every time I open the Adver I see more information and people helping out. It's wonderful.

"I may have been secretary for 30 years but I am still going strong. I'll continue to wrap presents, make marmalade, and brew tea for as long as the charity needs me."

Meanwhile there is still time to sign up for the Castles Mountain Bike Ride in aid of Macmillan Cancer Relief.

The ride start at 10am at the Croft Sports Centre in Marlborough Lane on Sunday.

The route follows some of the country's oldest roads, including the Ridgeway and the ancient peak at Barbury Castle.

Cyclists can choose from 10, 15 or 25-mile routes, which will be clearly marked out.

Entry to the ride, which is sponsored by Skurrays Vauxhall, costs £4. Accompanied children under 16 years will pay £2, and entry on the day will cost £10.

For details and entry forms call Jill Greenaway on (01793) 521630 or email jillgreenaway@ntlworld.com.

To make a donation to the appeal online, click here.

Tell us about your fundraising event, click here.