The Museum of Computing is a hub of all things techie, not only does it safeguard the history of computing, it open its doors to the next generation of programmers, proving that creating games can be as much fun as playing them.

Based in Theatre Square, Swindon, it was the first physical museum of its kind in the UK dedicated to the history of computing. The aim is to collect, document, interpret and showcase artefacts, and provide a record of the history of computing. But it is not simply a repository for artefacts, as it has active displays, provides a platform for lectures and allows the public to explore its collection for inspiration, learning and enjoyment.

The volunteer-run museum offers a hub for technology-related activities and education. Last year it hosted events such as LEGO games and town building, Mario - racing Olympics, it celebrated the 40th birthday of Space Invaders, held Racing Tournaments and Multiplayer Game days and it let out the robots!

The Museum of Computing Club was launched in October 2010 as an educational initiative by Simon Webb, the curator of the museum, to encourage students aged eight-17 to learn how to code.

Simon said: "Our goal is to show that software programming is a skill that anyone can learn. We aim to dispel the myth that programming is difficult by making it fun. We achieve this by getting our students to program games, mobile applications and websites amongst other things.

"Our educational curriculum gives the students a starting point and then lets the students use their imagination and creativity to design their software applications as they please. Einstein once said: Imagination is more important than knowledge. We believe imagination is key to being a great coder and coming up with new ideas is something that is encouraged in the club.

"Our students have created a number of games using Scratch, Contruct 2, Unity and many other creative applications,'' he said.

The museum is accredited with Arts Council England, and is a member of the Association of Independent Museums, the Museums Association, and the South West Federation of Museums and Art Galleries.

There is a mixture of permanent and temporary displays in the museum. Most artefacts belong to the museum, although some exhibits have been loaned by companies and other collectors. The museum is keen to show former products of commercial computer companies, and welcomes such offers.

Tickets to visit the museum which is open tomorrow and every Saturday from 10 am to 4pm are adults £2, children £1, family £5 and under 5s free. For more details visit https://www.museumofcomputing.org.uk - Flicky Harrison