A SWINDON wine merchant is urging would-be connoisseurs to put their taste buds to the test in aid of the NSPCC.

Magnum Wine Shop, Wood Street, Old Town, will host a Champagne tasting evening on Friday, July 8, after already raising more than £14,000 for the cause.

The special tasting will be hosted by business owner and long-term NSPCC supporter Brian Saunders.

Brian, owner of Magnum Wine Shp, said: “It’s nice to be able to do something like this to support the volunteers at the NSPCC.

“We always try to support local charities and it promises to be a successful event.

"It’s great to see people enjoying themselves for a good cause and although the NSPCC is a huge, nationwide charity, it’s still good to be able to do things at a local level knowing that the money raised will go to help people in Swindon.”

Around 50 people are expected on the night with each being offered the chance to sample a fine selection of Champagnes and canopies.

“I’m not sure which wines we’ll be using yet,” said Brian. “But they’ll have to be different from last year.”

Magnums have hosted three charity tasting events every year for the last 10 years and have supported various causes, including the Great Western Hospital’s Brighter Futures, Young Carers and the Swindon Lions Club.

Caroline Morgan, NSPCC fundraising manager for Swindon, said: “Through Magnum’s kindness, generosity and expertise, they have helped us raise more than £14,000 through these extremely popular tasting evenings which have been well supported by the community of Swindon.

“Everyone that attends has a great time in the wonderful surroundings of the Magnum shop, where you can always find a friendly reception and great service.

“We want to thank Magnum for their unwavering support and the fantastic Swindon KBO Group of Fundraisers who organise these particular events.

“Without events and supporters like these, the NSPCC would not be able to fight for every childhood thanks to the money and awareness raised.”

For tickets, or for businesses interested in supporting the NSPCC, please contact Caroline on caroline.morgan@nspcc.org.uk or 07795 283698.