Buskers told to stop that noise

In the latest drive to rid Swindon of beggars, street musicians are to be given special licences to ply their trade.

Only those who belt out faultless renditions of hits like John Lennon's Imagine will be granted one of the permits.

The idea is the brainchild of town centre manager, Bernie Maguire.

Although the scheme was unveiled before Christmas, just two people have provisionally signed-up.

Now Mr Maguire, who admits to feeling a little disappointed by the response, has urged buskers to get in touch or suffer the consequences.

He said: "People often say that Swindon has no heart here is a golden opportunity for buskers to put that heart back in to the town.

"Music helps create a continental flavour but bad music can be very annoying to both shoppers and retailers."

He added that the town has seen an increase in the number of 'chancers' beggars posing as musicians.

"Unfortunately we have people who attempt music with pennywhistles.

"These are not buskers these are beggars and these are the people we are clamping down on."

The panel looks set to comprise of key names in Swindon's music circles. "We will listen to what they can produce and if they measure up they'll be granted a permit," said Mr Maguire.

"Anyone caught by our patrols without a licence will be moved on."

The permits will come with certain conditions, however.

"There will be strict conditions on amplification and permit-holders will be asked to move on regularly to avoid complaints from shops," he added.

Paul Davis, 43, known in busking circles as 'the squirrels' has already put pen to paper.

He said: "I would rather people be allowed to do what they want but if this decision has been taken we have to go along with it.

"It may make the town centre a more interesting and enjoyable place.

"People should definitely get down to the auditions."

l Dates and venues for the auditions have yet to be set. But buskers are urged to call Mr Maguire now on 01793 464990.