IMPRESSIVE cheques have been presented to the Alzheimer’s Society and the Swindon Carers Centre.

Swindon Cares – a fundraising committee that comprises Rotary clubs, the borough council, the Adver and other local businesses – raised £7,300 for each charity.

The money was raised by various events, including a golf day and football tournament and the High Sheriff’s concert at Christ Church.

Cath Johnston, chief executive of Swindon Carers Centre, said: “I would like to express my wholehearted thanks on behalf of Swindon Carers Centre and all the carers who have benefited from the fantastic fundraising and big hearts.

“We had a tea dance on Saturday and it epitomised the difference Swindon Cares has made to our carers. They thoroughly enjoyed the afternoon and truly had a break from their caring role.

“This bi-monthly event, and the monthly Open Minds meeting group they have, has only been made possible by Swindon Cares’s unstinting efforts.

“It has been a fantastic two-year relationship between Swindon Cares and Swindon Carers Centre – confusing at times with the names – but truly fantastic.”

Adrian Williams, regional community fundraising manager for the Alzheimer’s Society, said the donated amount would enable it to run its second ‘Singing for the Brain’ service in Swindon for a whole year.

He explained: “Singing for the Brain not only has a transformative effect on the confidence and communication abilities of people with dementia but it also offers carers a social experience that they can share with those for whom they care.”