THE mayor of Swindon commissioned a painting of a scene from his childhood to use on official Christmas cards.

Derek Benfield (Lab, Covingham and Nythe) paid local artist Gary Samuel to create the winter image of the Midland and South West Junction Railway Bridge over the Wilts and Berks Canal.

When the mayor, now 71, was a child living in Albion Street, the area was his favourite playground.

The painting and Christmas card was suggested by mayoress Pam, also 71, his wife of 50 years, as the couple strolled in the area in February, and 1,000 copies of the card have now been sent.

The mayor said: "As a young lad, I played there for hours and hours, all along the canal, where I used to fish for minnows.

"There were grass snakes and other things you know what kids are like and the canal was full of life.

"The original painting the Christmas card is taken from is in my living room, one of four pieces by the same artist."

The mayor is just one local dignitary to send cards with personally-chosen designs this year.

For example, Bishop of Swindon Michael Doe has marked his last Christmas in his current role he is to head an international Christian charity by sending a card with a design called Watchful Star.

Created by artist Kirsty R Walker, it shows the three shepherds in silhouette, along with a lamb. All gaze at the star they follow.

The card from Swindon police, signed by divisional commander Pat Stayt on behalf of himself and his staff, shows the police helicopter, which doubles as the Wiltshire Air Ambulance, against a snowy backdrop.

South Swindon MP Julia Drown has sent cards bearing an image of one of the faces of Big Ben, surrounded by fireworks.

A winter landscape was also chosen by the team at Audi, although their landscape features the company logo carved into the deep snow.

Swindon College has opted for a professional-looking and well-finished card which was produced at the college itself.

The design shows a multi-hued dove of peace against a dark background.

Age Concern Swindon, which is devoted to helping to preserve the rights and welfare of the town's senior citizens, is also sending out a card of its own, featuring a design showing two children putting the finishing touches to a snowman.

Swindon-based financial giant Nationwide has produced an ecologically-conscious card using at least 70 percent recycled paper, with a collage-style design showing a Christmas tree and snowman.