IT was eyes down for our Julia's House appeal when Devizes Conservative Club staged a charity bingo evening.

Club regulars and guests dug deep to buy raffle tickets for a draw which helped boost the final total raised to £440.

Club secretary Carol Webb said: "People donated some wonderful gifts to raise money for Julia's House. The event on May 20 was a huge success. Everyone was very generous."

The evening was organised by Jackie Davis, Sophie Davis and Eric Bolwell with Janine Chowney-Andrews as bingo caller.

There is also a chance for businesses to become involved with fundraising for Julia's House by taking part in a Ride To Rio challenge between June 7 and the closing ceremony of the Rio Olympic Games on August 21.

Devizes firm Cardwave has already signed up and is urging other firms to also get on their static bikes. Teams can ride for a solid 24 hours or have the bike for two 12 hour slots.

The event is being organised in conjunction with Bishops Cannings Parish Festival which runs from June 17 to 26. Festival organiser Elizabeth Frearson said: "We are hoping that local companies will rise to the challenge like Cardwave has and sign up. We will be providing a party box to the business who rides the furthest, and hope that between us we can meet the 5,705 mileage target, in addition to raising funds for Julia's House.”

Cardwave CEO Paul Norbury said: " "We are delighted to support this fun, worthy fundraising initiative and want to challenge other companies to join in and compete with us. A short amount of time and effort can make a huge difference to a child and their family that need support from Julia's House."

Businesses will be provided with the static bike but too book a slot contact contact Mrs Frearson at elizabethfrearson@hotmail.co.uk. To donate to the Cardwave effort go to www.justgiving.com/CardwaveRidetoRio.

The Bishop Cannings Festival includes a series of events and activities put on by local groups, local businesses and individuals. For full details see www.bcpf.moonfruit.com