AS the title race hots up football fans now have the chance to see the real Premiership trophy in Swindon today.

Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United are scrapping it out in a bid to be crowned champions in May.

But Swindon shoppers can get in first and have their picture taken with English football's ultimate prize at Barclays bank in Regent Street today between 10am and 4.30pm.

Swindon's branch manager Mark Francis said: "We are delighted to have the Barclays Premiership Trophy at the branch.

"Everyone, from school kids to office workers on their lunch breaks are welcome to come down to the branch and have their photo taken with a trophy that has been held aloft by some of the world's greatest players.

"It's a great pleasure to offer this opportunity to our customers and football fans."

Last year the trophy was won by Arsenal, who remained unbeaten throughout the season.

The trophy is always flanked by two security guards when on display because of its value.

Premiership factfile

The Premiership was introduced in the 1992-93 season, replacing the old Division One

For the first year it was named the Premier League, and renamed the Premiership

From 1993 to 2001 it was sponsored by Carling, from 2001 to 2004 by Barclaycard. Barclays started sponsoring the event this year and will do until 2008

Since its introduction Manchester United have won the title eight times, Arsenal three and Blackburn Rovers once

Alan Shearer is the all-time top scorer in the league with 248 goals, followed by Andy Cole with 171

There are more than 260 foreign players, and 101 Premiership players participated in the 2002 World Cup.

Les Ferdinand scored the 10,000th goal in the Premiership when he netted first for Tottenham Hotspur against Fulham. The game ended 4-0 to Spurs.

Tom Morton