SOMERFIELD staff have given up shelf stacking for the week and have opted for a more energetic pastime.

The Wootton Bassett shop workers have been cycling in store on an exercise bike to raise money for the Association of Children's Hospices.

And by the end of the week they are hoping to hit their £1,000 fundraising target.

Deputy manager Carl Buckham is thrilled his staff took up the challenge with gusto.

"Everyone has been really enthusiastic about getting on the bike," he said.

"So far one lad has the record of biking for six miles in just under an hour.

"But loads of people have been peddling away and have enjoyed themselves too."

Each year Somerfield chooses a charity to raise money for.

This year each shop is supporting the Association of Children's Hospices.

"It's a really good thing that we can raise money for hospices that care for children," added Mr Buckham.

"We always do a lot for charity but this year we have stepped it up a gear and are doing even more."

Along with the bike ride, two other members of staff, Dave Tuck and Nick Watts, will be cycling from the shop on Saturday to Chippenham, via the Calne and Melksham stores, in a 36-mile sponsored ride.

Somerfield is also helping the association to educate people about children's hospices.

The Butterfly campaign, which has the backing of the Steve Redgrave Trust, has been set up to redefine understanding of children's hospices.

Children's hospices provide a wide variety of services to children and their families, often over a period of many years for each child.