When Swindon Mayor David Cox paid a return visit to the Co-op bank in Regent Street, some months after opening its refurbished offices, it was to collect a £500 cheque for his nominated charities.

Also there to collect a cheque for £1,000 from branch manager Phil Grove was Simon Clarke, 31, of Old Town.

Mr Grove said: "We believe that it is important that business should be involved in the affairs of the community, especially in supporting local charities."

Accepting the cheque for £500, Coun Cox said: "This gesture will be hugely appreciated by all those benefiting from the gift.

"It is a demonstration of business commitment to our community."