STRATTON’S famous stroll returns for another year with a new watering hole on the route.

Thousands of revellers will race around seven pubs in the parish and down as many pints as they can on June 23 - all for a good cause.

Money raised from this year’s event will go towards Swindon Young Carers, the chosen charity of Stratton St Margaret Parish Council chairman Stuart Leach.

The Bakers Arms will kick things off at 11am.

Landlord Kathy Kelley said: “This is the first time we’ve been part of the stroll so we’re really looking forward to it.

“We’re also quite excited about being first pub.

“The route used to be a straight line, but it’s been moved around a bit this year, which has allowed us to join it. Hopefully it will all go well.”

The rest of the route will include the Kingsdown, the Crown, the New Inn, Grange Bar at Grange Leisure Centre, the Wheatsheaf, and the Rat Trap.

Joanna Edwards, events officer for Stratton St Margaret Parish Council, said: “People have mentioned that it’s busier here during the stroll than on New Year’s Eve.

“Organising it is a huge task and it’s really grown in popularity over the last few years.

“Everyone has really thrown themselves into it and they’re looking forward to coming together to celebrate Stratton.

“Last year, we received some feedback about toilets and security, which we’ve worked on improving.

“There will be more toilet facilities this year and the security issue has been addressed."

She added: “Hopefully everyone will come along and have a good time - and drink responsibly!”

Usually, the pub crawl is held after the Stratton Festival, the biggest event in the parish’s calendar.

However, this year, organisers have decided to hold it before the festival due to the availability of music acts.

The full line up of performers taking part has yet to be confirmed, though Kathy revealed that Blind Lemon, the Runaway Boys, Pulse and Good Times will be playing at The Bakers.

Anyone who is in a band and would like to be part of the event should call the parish council’s events team on 01793 825525 or email events@strattonstmargaret.gov.uk