Mayor Junab Ali joined the Mad March Hare team for their 12th annual curry night to raise money which will cover the costs of running next month’s main event.

More than 60 guests packed into the Lalbagh Indian restaurant to enjoy a tasty two-course meal, play a raffle and raise more than £630.

New Mad March Hare team member Denise Glover said: “Running an event like the Mad March Hare costs money and by raising money at events like the curry night and having fantastic local companies which support us year on year we are able to ensure 100 per cent of the entry fees go to the Breast Cancer Now charity.

“This was my first year of volunteering but I have taken part in the 10k event before, which is how I learnt about the great work of the group, and I am now proud to be part of the team.

“This was my first curry night event and I was blown away by the support and the amount of money raised. I brought along my friends and family tonight and we had a lovely evening, the food was amazing and I will definitely be coming back.”

Mad March Hare chair Margaret Nicholson said: “We are very privileged that Swindon’s Mayor Junab Ali has supported the event and will run it for the second time this year. We are very lucky to have such loyal followers who not only come back each year to support our fundraising events but also volunteer or take part on the day.

“Along with the many local companies who sponsor the event, our team work all year round to ensure the day is a success. It is thanks to everyone involved that we have raised more than £100,000 so far and we hope to make 2019 a year to remember.”

The Mad March Hare will take place on Sunday March 24, starting and finishing at Lydiard Park Academy.

Walkers, joggers and runners of all ages and abilities can take part on their own, with friends and family, or even with a dog on the 5km or 10km routes around West Swindon and Lydiard Park.

Esther Newman, another member of the event's team, said: "The event is one of a kind, it appeals to all ranges and abilities and ages and we are very proud to be part of so many personal journeys as they take it on for charity.

"Without the support of the Swindon community we would not be in our 12th year and we want to thank each and every person who has ever taken part and we hope you will join us again this year."

Breast Cancer Now is the UK's largest breast cancer charity and funds research into the disease.

To take part or volunteer at the event please visit madmarchhare.org.uk, email info@madmarchhare.org.uk or call 0845 6808064.