MEMBERS of a gaming society that uses hand-painted models to re-enact historic battles is holding a 25-hour sponsored gaming marathon this weekend for charity.

Swindon and District Wargamers, based at Moredon Community Centre, will be marshalling their troops on Saturday in a bid to raise funds for Prospect Hospice and veteran’s mental health charity Combat Stress.

Organiser Phil Wynne said: “The idea came from a conversation I had with another member of the club who suggested a 24-hour gaming session.”

The gamers were originally planning a 24-hour game-a-thon, but quickly realised they would get an extra hour due to daylight saving time, so they upped the stakes to 25 hours.

“All you need to do is turn up, make a donation, and find a game you want to play,” said Phil.

“From sci-fi super humans vs aliens to Warhammer Ancients, we cover a wide range of games.

“What’s more, there’s also a painting competition in which the best painted figures will receive a prize.

“We thought the addition of a model-painting competition, in which the public vote for the winner, would really complete the day. It should be a really interesting competition.”

The gamers decided to support one local and one national charity.

The game-a-thon will include scenario war games that re-enact scenes from films such as The Good, The Bad and The Ugly, and Star Wars – with model spaceships included.

Louise Brooks, a member of the fundraising team at Prospect Hospice, said: “We really appreciate the Swindon And District Wargamers taking on this challenge for Prospect Hospice.

“It’s brilliant because it’s a really unusual fundraiser and a fantastic way to raise money while doing something they really love.

“Without kind people like the Wargamers, we wouldn’t be able to provide the care that we do. We are really grateful that they are taking the time to fundraise for us.”

The event will be held at Moredon Community Centre from 10am on Saturday, October 29. Members of public are invited to watch the games and to get involved.

People are also encouraged to celebrate with the gamers on Sunday between 8am and 10am following the completion of their marathon task.

Phil said: “There will be tea coffee and cakes available for a small fee and all takings will be donated to our charities.”

Visit www.sadwargamers.com for information.