ONE of the first fencing clubs in the region to be twinned with their French equivalent is now re-launching itself to attract new members.

Swindon Fencing Club, which was established 30 years ago, is moving to new premises in New College's Queens drive campus.

The club recently made a five-day visit to St Lo, in Normandy, where it fought in a friendly competition.

Since receiving a £10,000 lottery grant in 1998, the club has grown dramatically but is still looking for new recruits.

There are now 20 adult members and 30 junior members who meet every Wednesday at the Park Youth and Sports Centre in Marlowe Avenue.

From next week, they will practice their sport at New College where there is more space, separate changing rooms and a secure location to store their equipment.

Club member Stuart Watts said: "We realised the space that we have at the Park youth centre was not enough for what we want to offer.

"At the moment we have plenty of beginners and a few established competitors but we want to attract people of all abilities."

The club is also the first in the south to be twinned with one in France.

It all started when Gerald Belhaire from St Lo Fencing Club was on holiday in saw an article about the Swindon club in the Evening Advertiser and made contact via the club's website. It is now set to become a regular exchange.

Club president Neil Bromley said he was looking forward to hosting St Lo next year.

"Fencing every week against the same people in Swindon gives everyone good practice but there is no substitute for fencing different people from other clubs, let alone other countries.

"Fencing is yet another sports activity available in Swindon and as our town gets closer to city status, we want to be at the forefront of its sporting development."

People interested in taking up the sport can join the beginner course, which takes place in January. For more contact Neil on Swindon 346660.

bvadde@newswilts.co.uk