BOOK lovers will be putting down their novels and pulling on their dance shoes for a barn dance they are holding in aid of the Prospect@Home appeal.

The barn dance will be one book club's version of a get-together.

At the moment people all over Swindon are organising their own type of get-together to raise money for the Prospect Hospice's Prospect@Home appeal, by organising events or meals - usually in their own home - and asking their guests for a donation.

The Swindon Advertiser is backing the appeal to set up the Prospect@Home service, which will make a team of expert nurses and carers available 24-hours a day to care for people in their own homes.

Carol Cunningham, who is in the Latton Book Club, which meets once a month at a member's home, said they were inspired to help the Prospect@Home appeal because of the excellent work it does.

"One of our members, Jenny Evans, works for Prospect Hospice as lottery manager which is one reason why we wanted to support this appeal," said Carol, 60, from Highworth, who - along with several other members of the book group - is a volunteer for Swindon Citizens Advice Bureau.

"I think the Prospect Hospice is a fabulous place. It takes a special type of person to work there. So many people volunteer there and give their time for free. They are all so kind and caring that we all really wanted to support this appeal."

The barn dance is being held at Cricklade Town Hall on September 22, at 7pm, with dancing starting at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £10, and that includes a hearty meal as well as the barn dance. There will also be a bar and raffle. Tickets are available by calling Carol on 01793 765316 or Gemma Jones at Prospect Hospice on 01793 816147.

If you want to hold a get-together, all you need to do is get hold of a fundraising pack. It is full of ideas of what type of event to hold, recipes, and even discount vouchers.

You can apply for your Get Together fundraising pack by contacting Gemma Jones on 01793 816147 or on 01793 815142.