SWINDON CANCER APPEAL: This week marks the start of the Macmillan Macmile challenge.

Fundraisers from Swindon and Marlborough are busying themselves with all sorts of events to raise money for the Swindon Cancer Appeal.

Jean Cook will be taking in the sights around Wilton, near Salisbury, as she and a group of walkers undertake a three-mile stroll.

Jean, 65, of Five Stiles Road, Marlborough, said: "I know a lot of people who have been affected by cancer so I wanted to do something to help others.

"My good friend Joan Witts died of cancer nine years ago, aged 67 and my brother Brian Thompson also had the disease but thankfully he recovered and is now fine.

"My sponsors have been so generous.

"I've already raised over £400 and I really believe every little bit counts."

The former swimming teacher at St Peter's School, Marlborough, added: "I'm doing another walk next week, which will be eight miles. I want to do whatever I can to support the Swindon Cancer Appeal."

Sue Cox, 37, of Elcot Lane, Marlborough, will be joining Jean on Thursday's walk.

She said: "It will be a lovely walk along the canal and made even better because we will be raising money at the same time.

"My mother-in-law Shirley Cox died of cancer in 1997, aged 59. She was helped by Macmillan Cancer Relief."

Meanwhile a family of milkmen will be making an extra delivery for their Macmile event.

Mark Robins, 41, has pledged his support for the fund, along with his brother Adrian, 43, and father Stanley, 75.

While doing their rounds in Wootton Bassett they will drop off special charity envelopes to their customers.

Penny Blake, 49, is preparing a dog show at the Polo Ground in Marlborough Road, Swindon, from 10am on Monday, May 26.

And residents and staff at Harry Garrett Court, in Wroughton, are planning a number of events on Saturday including a bike ride and a coffee morning.

Macmile participants are asked to pick their favourite activity, such as walking, cycling or swimming, and complete a mile or more to raise money.

Or you can come up with something more out of the ordinary like hopping for a mile, walking backwards, or a three-legged race.

Call the appeal office in Milton Road for a fundraising pack on Swindon 601636 or 601637, or email miles@mktpoint.com

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

Tell us about your fundraising event, click here.