Fun days, exercise marathons and fancy dress events were held across the Chippenham area last week as part of Ted’s Big Day Out, raising funds for the Forever Friends Appeal.

The theme of this year’s Day Out was Fluorescent Friday and supporters of the Royal United Hospital in Bath rose to the occasion in style.

At St Mary’s RC School in Chippenham 40 challengers took part in a fitness marathon completing circuit training and Zumba exercises from 8am until 4pm, all dressed in brightly coloured 80s fun fashion.

They were led by fitness trainer Trevor Bramble from ATP Health & Fitness, who organises a charity event every year for a good local cause, and he is already thinking about next year.

Their efforts raised an amazing £3,000 in total, with more still coming in.

Also on Friday, residents of Warrington Lodge care home at The Linleys, Corsham, enjoyed a day of games, while staff got dressed up in fluorescent clothing.

Care manager Kerry Biggs said: “It was a fun day for the residents, they enjoyed seeing us all dressed up in brightly coloured wigs and fishnets and that sort of thing, and enjoyed some games.

“Staff and residents all brought a teddy bear in as well, it is Ted’s day out after all. It is a good cause, and a good excuse to have some fun.”

The appeal is currently raising funds for a new £5 million cancer care unit at Bath’s Royal United Hospital.

Other events included a fun day on Saturday at the Kingsley Road Community Hall in Chippenham with face painting, stalls and a teddy bear’s picnic.

Appeal fundraiser Zoe Tainton said: “Lin Ryan and her family did an amazing job of organising this event, there was plenty to do and a lot to look at.

“The kids really enjoyed the bouncy castle and face painting, Big Ted turned up which always brings a smile to people’s faces.

“We would like to thank all those who supported the RUH’s Cancer Care Campaign at the family fun day.

“The people of Chippenham and Calne are helping us a lot and we are grateful for it.”

The total funds raised this year have yet to be calculated as donations are still being collected, but a circuits and Zumba marathon at St Mary’s School on October 13 has alone raised more than £3,000.