Stagecoach staff from Swindon lifted the winner's trophy and helped to raise almost £1,800 for animal charities when their firm staged an inter-branch football tournament.

The event was one of a series planned through the year to generate cash for four good causes in its operating area.

Teams from Cheltenham, Gloucester, Oxford and other areas in the Stagecoach West region battled it out at Cirencester RFC in front of a crowd of colleagues and their friends and families on September 18.

Swindon triumphed overall, winning all three deciding matches, scoring seven goals in total and drawing in the final against Oxford.

Managing director Rachel Geliamassi said she was delighted with the turnout and the skills players showed on the pitch.

"It was a hard-fought tournament with each team giving it their all. Congratulations to our Swindon team for scooping the winners’ trophy at this years’ event.

“Our teams all work incredibly hard so it was really great to see everyone coming together and enjoying themselves, whilst raising much needed funds for this year’s chosen charities. Thanks to all involved for taking the time to organise such a fun and worthwhile event.”

Oak and Furrows, based at Blakehill Farm nature reserve near Cricklade was one of the four charities to benefit. Teckels animal shelter in Gloucester, Oxfordshire Animal Sanctuary at Stadhampton and Bristol Animal Sanctuary will all have a share when the firm dishes out the total fundraising for the year in April.