Swindon leaders give their messages for the new year.

MIKE BAWDEN: Swindon Council leader. I can't wait for 2004 - there is so much to look forward to. My aspiration is that when the Government inspectors come to assess our services next autumn, they'll find real, concrete improvements that will see us wave goodbye to the dreadful 'poor council' tag that we've had for the past two years.

It is my job as leader to make this happen - we have put in place a new management team of talented, energetic and skilled people who can provide the leadership that will draw out the best from our dedicated front line staff.

As well as improvements at the council, I'm also hopeful that 2004 will see announcements that will offer exciting new opportunities for our town. I'd like to see Westfield, managers of the Brunel centre, finalise their plans to extend the shopping centre in the middle of the town. This could mean up to 100 exciting new shops, a cinema and new places to eat. It is an investment that will bring jobs and prosperity to our town.

I hope also that 2004 will see much firmer plans for a proper campus for the University of Bath at Swindon. As well as offering a place for local people to study, it will provide research facilities and attract investment that can only benefit our borough.

I'd like to say thank you to the thousands of staff from Swindon Council who have worked tirelessly, often in difficult times, to deliver the services local people need and enjoy - from street sweepers to social workers, library staff to teachers. Now 2004 is the year of delivery of improved, better-value council services.

And finally, I'd like to wish everyone a very peaceful and enjoyable New Year.