The Mayor of Swindon called in at The Crossing for a bite to eat and to cut the ribbon at the launch of the Brunel's bustling new food destination.

Coun Maureen Penny joined guests at the first floor food nexus in the shopping centre for its official launch on Wednesday.

Bernard Ferris, head of retail property for FI Retail Estate Management, and James Raspin, its head of asset management for offices, spoke to the gathering about their ambitions to bring people into Swindon's town centre.

"We need a new focus and new form of use that's going to return the vibrancy the town deserves," Mr Ferris declared.

Twelve food outlets have opened at the food hub, with a mix of small independents and start-ups such as Indy's Vegan Kitchen and Soul Shack, as well as well known chains such as Subway. Local food company Eggelicious and local independent Tastes of Portugal have also opened new venues in the centre, which has a communal dining area where people can eat and meet, as well as providing a venue for live events.

Triple Two has opened its second café in The Brunel, with a menu of soups and sandwiches as well as some of the best coffee in the town. Italian inspired restaurant Broccoli Pizza and Pasta is coming soon, and another name is about to be unveiled.

Jane Stewart, deputy centre manager, said: “The Crossing has filled up with such a great collection of new names and family favourites. We’re proud to be able to see Triple Two expand with this second premises in The Brunel, and be able to support up-and-coming food independents like Indy’s Vegan Kitchen and new enterprises to the UK in Broccoli Pizza and Pasta."