A NEW app is to be launched at the Big Arts Day,thanks to digital media centre Create Studios.

Young people under 25 can download the free Cultural Passport app and, as they attend arts events and gain points, they can become a different Culture Character.

As they gain different levels they will automatically be entered into a free prize draw for a top of the range tablet computer.

Commissioned by Create Studios and developed with Evil Twin Artworks, the app will be a fun way to be rewarded, as young people attend activities such as shows, courses, exhibitions and workshops.

Create Studios manager Shahina Johnson said: “We’ve been developing this as part of our funding from Arts Council England, making Swindon one of the first towns in the country to have an app like this.

“It’s a funky new approach which will help young people tap into the great cultural offer in Swindon and Wilts, and pick up rewards on the way.”

The Big Arts Day, which takes place at Lydiard Park on Saturday, is set to attract thousands, with six music stages offering endless amounts of local talent with everything from jazz, punk, ska, rock, samba, indie, rockabilly and more.

Headlining the main stage are Big Weekend Records featuring AJ and friends, as well as Josh Kumra, known for his number one hit with Wretch 32, Don’t Go .

Council leader Rod Bluh said: “It’s a fantastic event. More important than the event itself, however, is what it says about the huge range of talent we have in this town.

“Big Arts Day brings together so many people in one place and as a community festival it is absolutely priceless. The festival is something we look to build on each year.

“Swindon in the future should not just be about a place to do business but also about an exciting place to be.”

For more information on the app visit www.createstudios.org.uk.

For details on the Big Arts Day visit www.bigartsday.co.uk.