SCHOOLCHILDREN, business people, residents and politicians are just some of the people expected to gather for Swindon's first ever 'Eco-bash.'

Organisations involved in projects improving the environment in and around Swindon will attend the event.

Taking place on April 23, the event will also play host to Swindon Council's annual Quality of Life Awards prize-giving ceremony.

Seven Fields Conservation Group is the current holder of the trophy and group member Marilyn Beale, who is also Swindon's Environmental Citizen of the Year, has been invited to speak.

Lower Shaw Farm, First Great Western and the Oxford, Swindon and Gloucester Co-op sponsor the Eco-bash.

It is being organised by Local Agenda 21 co-ordinator Lynn Forrester with the help of volunteers. Doors open to the public at 1.00pm and the prize-giving will take place at 1.30pm.

Anybody who has an idea for an environmental project, or is planning or currently running a project and would like to apply for next year's award, is asked to contact Lynn on (01793) 466167.