THE famous Stratton Stroll took place on Saturday to raise funds for local children’s cancer and leukemia charity CALM.

Six Stratton pubs and bars took part in the event and revellers were treated to specially brewed ale, barbecues, live music and plenty of sunshine.

Festivities kicked off in The Kingsdown at midday with music from local artists Aural Candy, Ethemia, Ukey D’ukes and Antony Willis & Friends.

Tom Pavey, manager of The Kingsdown, said: “It’s fantastic to be hosting another Stratton Stroll and this year it’s starting with us so we have to set the standard for the rest of the pubs.

“I’ve only been the manager here for one month so I’m hoping I can do it justice. The previous people who ran the pub always did a great job and I’m sure I can do them proud.”

After The Kingsdown, the next pub along the route was The Crown Inn, whose merriments began at 1pm with bands Oscillator and Zing, before the torch was passed to The New Inn where Nick Weaver and Darren Hunt performed.

Tanya Goodale, manager of the Crown, said: “It’s really crazy, absolutely mental. The pub’s full, the garden’s full, people really seem to be enjoying it.

“It’s great to be raising money for CALM. We’ve done things for them before and it’s good to be able to help a local charity.”

CALM was chosen by Councillor Joe Tray, chairman of the Stratton St Margaret Parish Council, as his charity of the year and people were happy to donate as they went from pub to pub.

Alan Coward, a representative from CALM, said: “It was great to be chosen and to have the privilege of being here today.

It’s a wonderful event for Stratton and for Swindon as a whole. We’re just trying to help support other families and we’re thankful to be chosen. Hopefully we’ll raise a bit of money today.”

After The New Inn, those still standing made their way to Grange Bar before finishing up at The Wheatsheaf and The Rat Trap.

Other artists performing on the day included Jaye Oxley and Charlie Anne at Grange Bar, Zoe Newton and Jack Moore at The Wheatsheaf and Josie & The Outlaw at The Rat Trap.

The event comes just a week after the hugely successful Stratton festival, which took place at Grange Leisure and saw a huge variety of games and activities for people of all ages.

Last year the Stratton Festival raised more than £2,000 for Prospect Hospice and the Stratton St Margaret Parish Council hopes to beat that amount this time round.

Simon Martin, 43, of Blunsdon, said: “Great day so far, I’m looking forward to seeing what the other pubs have to offer.

Debbie Sharpe, of South Swindon, said: “I wasn’t going to bother coming today but I’m glad I did, it’s a super day, and all for a good cause.”