SOME of the many events this week, from heritage to industry to shopping, illustrate the range of good things happening in Swindon.

Yesterday was the public launch of the Swindon 175 Exhibition at the Steam Museum.

As many people appreciate, Swindon’s railway heritage shaped not just our town’s history but also our present.

Our coat of arms, which you can see on the new entrance signs to the town as well as in the council chamber, proudly bears the representation of a steam locomotive, as does the Swindon Town Football Club badge.

Part of the historic Railway Works has become the University Technical College.

And on the north side of the tracks we have the thriving Designer Outlet Village, award-winning new homes, and our own Steam Museum.

I was delighted to join staff and other enthusiasts in welcoming back the King George V and City of Truro locomotives on loan from the National Railway Museum, in York.

Even when being moved on the backs of lorries, these are still impressive pieces of engineering.

I know these will be wonderful additions to the existing exhibits and staff are working hard to make sure that when the museum re-opens on November 21 it will be a spectacular celebration.

I urge residents and visitors to take time to explore the Steam Museum.

You can find all the details about opening times and tickets here: www.steam-museum.org.uk In addition to our heritage, we also have good news about Swindon’s economy.

Vygon UK, a key local employer, has recently received recognition for its commitment to staff training and development through the Investors In People award.

Vygon is a medical supplier, which provided a new lease of life to the landmark former-Motorola building in North Swindon.

Sharp-eyed DVD viewers will recognise it from the 1999 James Bond movie The World is not Enough.

I know Vygon is just one of many local firms that is creating wealth and providing great jobs in the town.

Of course, the most noteworthy event for many will be the Christmas lights switch-on in the town centre.

Before Union J has illuminated the area there will be other events including a Snow Dome at the Parade and at 5pm, Swindon Young Musicians will be playing at Regent Circus.

The Brunel Centre Management, InSwindon and the council are providing free parking every Thursday after 3pm from now until Christmas at the Brunel North Car Park and Fleming Way Car Parks and we have good public transport links, too.

Now is a great time for everyone to come to the town centre to enjoy their Christmas shopping.