Mayor Peter Stoddard Picture Ref: 77159-305HUNDREDS of Swindon residents have got in on the act of supporting London's Olympic bid.

They have added their signatures to an Olympic flag that is being taken around south west region and this week visited Swindon.

The flag was taken to a Swindon Town match where hundreds of supporters added their signatures.

It later decorated the steps of the Civic Offices in Euclid Street where representatives from Swindon Council, the Chamber of Commerce and local sports groups signed it.

Sports development manager Steve Connolly said: "We've had a positive response from the people of Swindon to the bid.

"As the flag was on the steps of the Civic Offices, lots of passers-by gave us their support.

"And at the match lots of supporters wanted to sign it."

Steve believes that Swindon will benefit if the London wins the bid.

"The infrastructure of sporting facilities will be enhanced and there will be a real push for more people to get involved in sports.

"A lot of people will want to visit other parts of the country as well as London.

"Our history goes a long way back and most other countries don't have that so they will want to visit all the historical sites.

"Many will visit the sites around Swindon and could stop off."

Once the Olympic flag has been taken around different areas of the south west it is hoped that it can be taken along to the International Olympic Committee in Singapore where the decision over London's bid will be made.

And Steve hopes the signatures of Swindon residents could help to sway their decision.