A FILM about Swindon which received the Queen’s royal seal of approval will be screened at various venues this summer.

Scores of residents starred in the showreel, called A Portrait of Swindon, which celebrates the borough’s rich heritage, culture, commerce, communities and landscapes.

In keeping with the Royal portrait theme, whilst making the film people were asked who they would like to see sitting on a special gold sofa. Following up on these suggestions, lots of local people are captured on the couch in a series of images accompanying the film.

Vince Ayris, 49, who runs a shoe repair and engraving shop in Havelock Street, features in the film and met the Queen on May 1.

He said: “I can honestly say it was the highlight of my life. I presented Her Majesty with a copy of the film and she gave such a wonderful smile. It felt very personal and you could tell she was enjoying it.”

Excerpts from the film, produced by Create Studios, are available to view at www.createstudios.org.uk/swindonjubilee

  • The whole film can be seen at the Artsite Gallery between June 7 and 9 from 10.30am until 4pm, The Big Arts Day on July 14 and the Central Library, during opening hours, from September 11 until October 1.