AN opticians in Cirencester is getting behind a summer-long fundraising effort to support Cancer Research UK. 

Specsavers on Cricklade Street kicked things off by carrying out specs MOTs (cleaning and adjustments) in return for a donation. 

They also asked people to write a message on a purple heart which was displayed in the shop window as part of Paint the Town Purple, which raised £179.

Kelly-Anne Nelson, store director, is spearheading the effort and getting well and truly stuck in. 

She will be cycling 843 miles in seven days on a static bike in store, starting on Sunday (July 16) and will then take part in the Relay for Life at South Cerney Airfield on Saturday, July 29. 

“While this is something I’m passionate about doing, the whole team is getting behind the fundraising effort,” said Kelly-Anne.

“The cycling challenge and Relay for Life are going to be tough but I’m determined we raise as much money as possible.

“To raise nearly £200 with our first event was fantastic and we’d like to say thank you to everyone that took part,” she added.

Relay For Life brings people and their towns together to help beat cancer sooner.

Throughout the year, teams of eight to 15 people get together and fundraise in their local communities to support the work of Cancer Research UK.

For further information, contact Kirsty Hall or Bethan Simkins on 01242 633100 or email: specsavers@targetgroup.co.uk

Visit relay.cancerresearchuk.org for more on the event later this month.