STAFF from the TSB Bank have been raising money for a charity which helps adults with learning disabilities.

After the branch chose The Open Door Centre as its charity of the year, employees cycled 136km (87 miles) on a static bike to kickstart the fundraising and raised £205.

The distance is the equivalent of the journey to the Bristol’s Clifton Suspension Bridge and back.

TSB accounts manager Josh Baker said: “The bridge was designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, who has strong links with Swindon, so it’s a nice local link.

“Kiss Gym donated a bike to us for the day and we’ve all been taking it in turns for an hour each.

“It was quite a challenge but we were really excited. Everyone’s been chipping in.

“We saw a few sweaty faces by the end of the day.”

Sarah Newitt said: “We also sold cakes outside the branch. It went really well, it was pretty busy.

“It picked up as the day went on, especially at lunchtime. Lots of people with kids came over to see us.

“Everyone donated money even if they didn’t buy a cake.”

TSB customers and charities suggested good causes for the branch to choose for their charity of the year. The suggestions were put to a vote and the Open Door Centre won.

The charity has been working in Swindon for more than 30 years to make a positive difference in the lives of adults with learning disabilities by helping its members become more confident and independent.

It currently has 100 people on its books who come in whenever they need help with problems at work or at home.

Pat Winning from the Open Door Centre was grateful for TSB’s support.

She said: “Every ounce of help we get is so important because we struggle to keep the place going and it’s very hard to secure funding. We are absolutely thrilled to bits and over the moon.

“It’s a vital resource and I feel very honoured and lucky that we’ve been here so long, people trust us and they know us.

“It’s amazing how much people change over time and it’s a pleasure to see them grow and develop.

“The members are in charge, really, they decide what they want to do and how they want to use the centre.”

The Open Door Centre is substantially funded by fundraising and grants.

To find out more about the charity and donate, visit theopendoorcentre.co.uk