As Swindon was moulded by the industrial revolution and the rise of steam powered trains, one would expect the towns heritage agencies to work together to produce a well-rounded educational experience for the local schools.

Currently, the town doesn’t have anything like this, but it is something that Swindon and Cricklade Railway would be interested in creating.

Allan Bott, a volunteer at the railway, said: “Ideally we would like a two-pronged approach.

“At Steam kids could learn about the history of GWR, how the trains were built and how it managed to give Swindon a place on the map, but it lacks an operating engine for people to see.

“So we would want to give the opportunity to have the kids hop on a bus and come to visit us at the railway.

“There they could see actual trains that were built in Swindon and see them in action. They could take a ride in the carriages and see how drivers actually operate the trains.

“It would definitely generate an interest in heritage railway and it can only be a good thing.

“At the end of the day, we would love to do a joint event with Steam, it will help introduce more children to steam trains and help them learn about the history of where they live.”

Steam has offered hope that this idea may work as a spokesman said: “The museum would be delighted to work with the Swindon and Cricklade Railway and would be happy to meet up if they make contact with us.”