St George's Day parade gets everyone in the spirit

The sun shone to help bring a carnival atmosphere to Wharf Green as live music played throughout the day.

A parade through Swindon stopped many in their tracks as St George, along with a dragon, led the Bluebell Majorettes to mark England’s national day.

Local musicians performed on a specially erected stage across the day and there was also a Punch and Judy show for the youngsters.

“It’s really good they are making a big thing of it this year,” said Jamie Gregory, 35, of Moredon.

“Often the day goes by without anything really being said but I’m glad Swindon is making an effort.”

Others watching the parade go by said not only was it good to mark the occasion but it also makes the town centre a better place.

Lucy Gosling, 51, who lives in West Swindon, said: “I think a lot of people don’t like coming to the town centre but if they put on events like this more people will come down.

“The majorettes are fantastic and they have put a smile on everyone’s face.”

The day concluded with the final of the Best of Swindon Talent completion. In recent weeks numerous acts from across the town had submitted their performances with the top eight making it through to Saturday.

All the acts had to perform in front of a group of judges. In the end, they decided young singer Phoebe Maddison was the winner and she will now get the chance to perform at the Swindon Christmas Lights switch-on later this year.

The day was organised by inSwindon, who are responsible for promoting the town centre.

“We just want to put the Town Centre on the map and give a big day for the good people of Swindon,” said Di Powell, the inSwindon BID manager.

“They can enjoy all the free activities in the sunshine. It makes your heart warm to see so many people smiling and having fun.

“With St George’s Day falling on a Saturday it has allowed us to make a bigger day. When we knew it was at the weekend we decided we were going to make the most of it.”