Ref. 29992-13New British citizens are to be formally welcomed to Swindon in a special ceremony this week.

Participants will deliver an oath of allegiance to the Queen and a pledge of commitment to the United Kingdom, in what is now a compulsory part of the naturalisation process.

Previously, a successful applicant for citizenship would have been notified by post, but since January 1 everyone has had to take part in a formal ceremony of admission.

The town's first citizenship ceremony will take place on Wednesday at 3pm at the Civic Offices in Euclid Street. Three people are expected to take part, all of whose applications have been approved by the Home Office.

The 45-minute ceremony will begin with speeches by superintendent registrar Karen Knapton and Swindon's mayor Derek Benfield.

After taking an oath of allegiance to the Queen before a Union Jack and a picture of Her Majesty, participants will be presented with their certificate of naturalisation along with a message from Home Secretary David Blunkett.

The newly sworn-in British citizens will also be given a lapel badge featuring Swindon's civic crest.

Mrs Knapton said it would be a great day for Swindon's newest citizens.

"In my speech I will be talking about what being British means, including showing tolerance and respect for others," she said. "We will ask them to make a pledge to observe the laws of the country, and we will be welcoming them on behalf of the Queen, the Government, and Swindon Council.

"Not only are we welcoming them to Britain but also to the local community. They have chosen to live here so we want to welcome them to Swindon and hope they will participate fully in the civic life of the town."

It was right that choosing to adopt British citizenship, which confers the right to vote and apply for a passport, should have some dignity and ceremony, she added.

The citizenship ceremonies will take place once every two months, and so far 55 people are waiting to take part at a cost of £218 per person or £286 for a joint application. Prospective citizens may also opt to pay a higher fee for an exclusive ceremony all to themselves. Homes Office figures estimate Swindon will have about 100 new citizens a year.

Andy Tate