SWINDON fire station will be throwing open its doors to the public on Wednesday as part of the Olympic torch festivities.

Between 11am and 2pm, people can visit the Drove Road site and meet their local firefighters and fire engines and specialist appliances will be on display, together with animal and water rescue equipment. There will also be an Ambulance from Great Western Ambulance Service and security advice from the Bobby Van.

The open day is part of a full programme of activities being planned throughout Swindon to celebrate the Olympic torch coming to the town.

The torch relay is expected to enter the borough at midday and will pass through Chiseldon and Wroughton before arriving in Swindon. Part of its route will take it past the fire station, as it navigates the Magic Roundabout.

Watch Manager Greg Izon, whose Green Watch will be on duty on the day, said: “This is a once-in-a-lifetime event and we wanted the fire station to be at the heart of the celebrations.

“It will be free to come in – although any donations we receive for refreshments will go to the Fire Fighters Charity – and we want people to come along and see what we do.”