NURSERY children, shop workers and even hairdressers have been among those donning their jeans to raise funds for children's charities.

Yesterday marked national Jeans for Genes day, and hundreds of Swindonians paid £1 for the pleasure of wearing their denims including the children of Noah's Ark Nursery in Okus Road.

Nursery manager Caroline Hammond explained: "This is the fifth year we've taken part in Jeans for Genes and everyone has really enjoyed it.

"All our children are well aware of why we've been doing this. They already sponsor a child in the Third World and now they're helping other children who are suffering from genetic disorders too."

Money from Jeans for Genes funds research into childhood genetic disorders such as cystic fibrosis.

A genetic disorder or birth defect affects one baby in every 30 born in the UK, which means one born every 26 minutes, whose life could be seriously affected.

Also decked in denim and collecting money in-store were the staff of Somerfield supermarket in Hyde Road, Stratton.

Personnel manager Julie Murray said: "The staff were happy to get involved. Last month we collected £300 for the blind and our customers are always happy to contribute to a good cause."

And the crimpers at J.J's Hair Studios in Crombey Street, High Street, Old Town, and Brewery Court, Cirencester, were also doing their bit.

J.J's owner Jane Jennings said: "This is the first year my salons have taken part and it's gone really well.

"All our staff usually dress very smartly in black, so it's been a nice change for them to come to work in their jeans, and all our customers have been great sports, giving to our collection.

"It's such a great cause, we think everyone should do it, and we'll definitely be taking part again next year."

There are more than 4,000 recognised genetic diseases, some of which are life-threatening and have no current treatment.

Organisations from the South West who are already benefiting from Jeans for Genes funding include Avon Lifetime Services in Bath, which offers support to the families of children suffering from genetic conditions.

Even if you missed this year's Jeans for Genes day, you can still organise your own event. More information is on the charity's website.