Swindon is said to be in the lead to become the headquarters for the National Trust when it moves out of London. The Link suggests it buy Sir Norman Foster's Renault building in Westlea which is available. Sir William Benyon, chairman, The Ernest Cook Trust, with trustees and cabinet maker restorer Julian Howard, centre, Sarah Finch-Crisp, second from right, Simon Jervis, chairman of the Furniture History Society and director of the National Trust Historic Buildings Department

Lydiard House and St Mary's Church next door, are under recognised as two of the nation's most impressive heritage buildings, according to Simon Jervis, chairman of the Furniture History Society and director of the National Trust Historic Buildings Department.

Speaking at a reception at Lydiard House to mark the Treasure Forever Conservation Programme and the restoration and return of the unique Socchi desk, Mr Jervis said that whilst Swindon has an image problem, Lydiard House is a shining example of a heritage asset that enhances the history and culture of the town.

The Socchi desk, a mechanical table built by Italian craftsman Giovanni Socchi in the 1830s is the only example in Britain, and one of only five in the world. Purchased in the early 20th Century by Mr Ernest Cook, a member of the Cook travel company family, who bequested it to Lydiard House via the National Art Collections Fund. The desk was first displayed when Swindon Corporation reopened the house in 1955.

The restoration to its original stunning back and gold finish was funded entirely by The Ernest Cook Trust. Chairman Sir William Benyon said Mr Cook would have taken enormous pleasure in seeing his complicated and rare piece of furniture beautifully restored in such excellent surroundings. "One can imagine 18th Century ladies sitting at the desk writing their letters."

Keeper of the house Sarah Finch-Crisp said the Treasure Forever programme is a continuation of the great post war restoration programme which followed Swindon Corporation's purchase of Lydiard Park during World War II. "The brave and inspirational move on the part of the council undoubtedly saved Lydiard House from demolition. Restoration of the house by the corporation's Direct Labour Organisation in the late 1940s and early 1950s was achieved despite rationing and with the support of Government agencies who recognised the exceptional quality of the place. The talents and skills of local people who worked here is one reason why the house or Lydiard Mansion as many still call it, belongs to Swindon people every bit as it once did to the St John family."

She added that work to trace and bring home the original Lydiard furnishings such as antiques, family curios, royal manuscripts and paintings dating back to Queen Elizabeth I has continued over fifty years. A new leaflet explaining how donations can be made through Treasure Forever is available at Lydiard House, or call Sarah Finch-Crisp on (01793) 770401 for details.