A GIANT water slide through the centre of Chard could not have gone ahead without the support of businesses in the town, Mayor Jenny Kenton has said.

Mrs Kenton said: “As well as numerous volunteers, this is truly a tribute to the people of Chard.”

The event is on Sunday from 10am- 4pm and about 300 people will be able to go on the water slide.

It will be open to everyone over the age of six – those under 1.20 metres tall will be able to slide later in the afternoon when the slide is shortened to allow younger children to take part.

Money raised from the event will go to the Mayor’s five charities – Chard Museum, Chard and Crewkerne After Stroke Care, Chard Carers Support Group, Chard Town Team and Chard Area Youth Committee.

Following an appeal in the News, Chard-based firm One Step Recruitment has stumped up the cash for the £700 road closure to ensure the expense does not eat into charity profits from the event.

Chard Town Council had to make a road closure application to Somerset County Council and members have met police to ensure the public’s safety on the day.

The event will replicate an event in Bristol earlier this year, which saw people travel from all over the country to take part.

Thosing help the cause include: Lentells Accountants, C+D transport, Albert Goodman accountants, Sainsbury’s, The Co-operative, Coors brewers, Eagle plant, Mr Adams, a farmer from Forton, the Rotary Club, the Masonic lodge, the Choughs Hotel, Greenslade Taylor Hunt, Warner Vision and county councillors Nigel Pearson and Jill Shortland from their well-being budgets.