You can be part of Swindon's city bid

As part of next year's celebrations for the Queen's Golden Jubilee, Swindon will once again be putting itself forward to be considered for city status and the strength of the bid will be the community's involvement, writes councillor Sue Bates, leader of Swindon Borough Council.

Four "suitably qualified" towns will be awarded city status, one each from England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The following guidelines have been issued of factors that would-be cities should have:

• Notable features, including regional or national significance
• Historical, including royal, connections
• A forward looking attitude

Swindon's 2002 bid will focus on its people, culture and history.

Swindon Borough Council have put together a task group that is researching and promoting Swindon's City bid. They are working closely with Swindon's community, including local companies and media to put a stronger focus on the people of Swindon and its culture.

Our city bid logo, designed by the council's in house graphics department represents Swindon moving forward and communities joining together.

Swindon is justly proud of its history and culture, examples of this include STEAM, Swindon dance, the best modern art collection outside the Tate and the Roman ruins at Abbeymeads.

Swindon is moving forward all the time, growing in size and attracting new people to the area. The council's task group is looking for information from Swindon residents who have a good story to tell about Swindon. Why is it special to you? Do you have a fond memory of a street or a park where you used to play? What are Swindon's hidden jewels?

If you feel there is something about Swindon, either current or historical, which shows that our modern, successful town deserves city status, please write to the Marketing Officer, Swindon Borough Council, Euclid Street, Swindon SN1 2JH or send an e mail to: jsheppard@swindon.gov.uk