RUGBY fans will be in their element later this year when some of the biggest names in the sport descend on Swindon.

To mark Peter ‘Bucko’ Buxton’s 250 games for Gloucester, a celebration year is taking place with a series of fundraising events in support of Winston’s Wish and The Wooden Spoon.

To show support for one of rugby’s stalwarts, a series of events are taking place throughout the country this year, including a gala dinner in Swindon in May.

More than 300 guests are set to rub shoulders with ex England captain Lewis Moody, Mike Tindall, Rory Lawson and Bucko himself.

The event will be hosted by Tight5Events on May 3 at the Village Hotel in West Swindon.

A spokesman for the committee said: “Bucko just isn’t one of those types to blow his own trumpet, which is why he’s recognised as the fans’ type of player, but he does care deeply about organisations that help others and doing all that he can to help them.

“Two charities that he is keen to support are Winston’s Wish and The Wooden Spoon and these will be the beneficiaries of the celebration year.”

The event will involve a three-course meal followed by a question and answer session and a silent charity auction with some impressive sporting lots.

Funds raised from the evening will be split between the two charities.

Wooden Spoon is a children's charity founded in 1983 that is dedicated to helping disadvantaged children and young people across Britain live happier, richer lives.

Winston’s Wish is a charity for bereaved children and helps young people re-adjust to life after the death of a parent or sibling.

Tables for 10 people cost £400 plus VAT, though tickets can also be bought individually.

For tickets and more details call 08454 238 945.