SWINDON Lions will be holding their last collection of the year this weekend outside Sainsbury’s in Brigemead.

The charity has raised more than £2,000 from holding Christmas collections for the special care baby unit at the Great Western Hospital.

They have been visiting local supermarkets with their Santa sleigh collecting money from the public in the run up to the big day.

So far, they have visited the Waitrose in Wichelstowe, Sainsbury’s in Stratton, and Morrisons in Dorcan.

Maurice Watson, past president of Swindon Lions, said: “We had a great start and have continued to build on this success despite the cold weather conditions.

“These collections are just part of our continuing work for the community.

“We try our best to help others through this method and it really does help those who need it most whether that be an individual or charity.

“We are very proud to be a part of making a difference to the people of Swindon, this is something we hope to be able to continue for the foreseeable future.”

Members of the group put hours of their spare time into thinking up ways of helping those less fortunate than themselves and they are constantly searching for new members who may have fresh ideas for raising cash or simply want to give some time to helping out.

For more information about other areas where the club helps out in the local community visit the website SwindonLions.org