HUNDREDS limbered up to make a new world record for the most people taking part in a Swiss exercise ball class today.

There was a sea of blue inflatable balls and lots of Mexican waves as 404 people moved, bounced and grooved to the music while also raising thousands of pounds for three charities.

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The current world record currently stands at 391 people, but whether that has been beaten by the 31 minute class at David Lloyd gym has to be officially confirmed by Guinness World Records, so everyone is keeping their fingers crossed.

The whole event was filmed by dozens of cameras, which adjudicators will watch back, while stewards were also keeping an eager eye on everyone taking part throughout.

“We are really optimistic,” said instructor Sophie Whitfield who was running the class with Kiz Davis.

Some opted to dress in bright attire while others went for more wacky outfits, such as donning American football gear complete with helmets.

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Music from the likes of Lady Gaga to Van Halen ensured people were energised and the session began with some stretches before it was ramped up to hard-core moves.

“If you are going to raise money you might as well do something like this,” said participant Paul Lucas, 66, from Abbey Meads.

“It was hard work but everyone was having a laugh.”

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The world record attempt was organised by new charity Younite Foundation, based in West Swindon, which supports disadvantaged children and young adults locally and overseas up until the age of 21.

They also decided the £5,000 raised on the day will be split between charities Jessie May, BIOS and Melon Mission.

Younite trustee Fiona Simpson said: “This world record was attempted here two years ago and they just missed out but wanted to give it another go and tie it in with the launch of the new charity.

“It goes to show for a really good cause people will come together.”

Meanwhile Diane Thornley, 65, was one of the hundreds taking part.

She said: “It’s really exciting to think we are record breakers. I did my back in not long ago but because this is such a good cause I didn’t want to miss out.

“I was also part of the attempt two years ago and we came so close so I hope we’ve done it this time.”

Paul Saunders, 56, from Cheney Manor took part with his wife Helen, 54, and daughter Amy Hill, 28.

He said: “I thought the organisation was absolutely wonderful.

“It takes people to have the initiative to bring the community together for something like this.”

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Eleven employees from Royds Withy King Solicitors also took part, including partner Malcolm Gregory.

He said: “It was as hard as I thought. I did it two years ago and was determined to come back and have another go at the record.

“The squats were my favourite part and it was really wonderful to see the community come together for a good cause.”

While it was the third exercise class of the day for Deb Mead, Ann Lott, Nicki Cross and Margaret Charles. They described the event as “brilliant.”

“It was great fun,” they said. “It was very uplifting and the atmosphere was great.”

The chorus of 'an extra class for an extra glass (of wine) could also be heard as people went off to celebrate and relax.

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