WINDOWS in Eastcott are to be lit up in a magical trail as householders turn the streets into outdoor art galleries.

More than 100 people have signed up to help create Window Wanderland in March, so called because people walk from place to place.

Four schools, a pre-school, several local businesses and organisations including the Central Library, Swindon Dance and Swindon Art Gallery & Museum are joining in.

The event is organised by Eastcott Community Organisation, a group of volunteers managing Savernake Street Social Hall, with the help of a grant from the National Lottery Community Fund.

“We loved this idea as soon as we heard about it, as it’s all about doing something special as a community and creating new connections,” said Caroline Davie-Khan, chairman of the community group.

“We are very grateful to the Big Lottery Fund for the grant to enable it to happen and we are really pleased with the amount of local interest in the event and think the week end will be something really special.”

The idea originally came from Lucy Reeves of Bristol who, because of chronic pain and social isolation, wanted to bring the community together. It was spotted by Helen Ganberg who brought it to Swindon.

She thought it would fit perfectly in Eastcott, so she worked with the community organisation to plan and deliver the event.

Helen said: “When I heard about the idea, I thought it would be magical, and a lovely way to bring the community together in a unique way.”

“The great thing is that everyone can take part, by making a display, walking the trail or both, and the ideas can be as simple as you like, it’s all about having some fun and joining in.”

There will be a printed and online map to follow the trail.

The deadline for registering on the print map has passed but people who wish to participate can still sign up and appear on the online map.

The grant allows the community organisation to offer several drop-in workshops run by artists for people who are looking for practical guidance as well as craft materials.

The next session is scheduled for Sunday from 2pm to 5pm at Savernake Street Social Hall.

The project has encouraged thousands of people across the UK and the world to participate. In 2019 there will be Wanderlands in Canada and France.

Laura said: “It doesn’t surprise me that people enjoy being part of this event, as when people come together to do something playful, a certain magic occurs.”

Window Wanderland runs between March 2 - 4 from 6pm to 9pm.