What should Swindon do to mark Brunel 200?

Swindon people are being invited to contribute ideas and suggestions for the 200th anniversary of IK Brunel's birth in April 2006.

Events are already being planned across the South West region by Culture South West and the Bristol Cultural Partnership for a range of events and activities throughout 2006.

Working with the South West Planning Team, Swindon Borough Council is hoping to achieve lottery funding to host a celebratory event in the town towards the end of the regional events in September 2006.

People of all ages and from all communities are invited to attend an exploratory meeting for people to be held on Wednesday 8 December, 10am to 12noon at STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway.

The meeting follows an initial meeting held with community groups in October at Swindon's Arts Centre.

Councillor Jemima Milton, Cabinet Member for the Environment said, "we are looking forward to receiving suggestions for an exciting event in Swindon to celebrate Brunel's 200th birthday. We want to involve individuals, community groups and parish groups across the borough in our discussions. The resulting ideas and suggestions will then be considered for our bid for lottery funding."

Helen Miah, Strategic Arts and Community Officer for Swindon Borough Council and a member of the Steering Group for the Brunel 200, South West project said, "this meeting is for anyone who feels they have some exciting ideas or suggestions for the celebrations that they would like to be considered at this early stage.

Those interested in going along to the meeting need to book a place by contacting Jean Coleman on 01793 466467 or email: jcoleman@swindon.gov.uk