SWINDON'S McArthurGlen Designer Outlet is taking on top shopping dest- inations throughout the UK for the title of Best Shopping Venue for Groups.

Other top shopping destinations competing for the award from readers of Group Travel Organiser magazine include Manchester's Trafford Centre, Bluewater in Kent, Lakeside in Essex and Sheffield's Meadowhall shopping centre.

Group Travel Organiser readers were given the opportunity to nominate any shopping venue throughout the UK, including town centres, markets, local shopping areas as well as shopping and outlet centres.

It's the second time that the Swindon outlet has been in the running for the award.

Last year the centre narrowly lost out to Bluewater and Lakeside.

Centre manager Franco Muccini said: "It's great to know the centre has been given an endorsement by shoppers, making it one of the best shopping experiences in the country.

"We've always aimed to be more than just a shopping centre. Our outlet centre is a day out."

Jamie Cash, managing editor of Group Travel Organiser, said: "The awards scheme is voted for by customers who have enjoyed a first class shopping experience not a panel of judges.

"All of the finalists have been given the seal of approval by visitors."

The winner will be announced at an awards ceremony at London's Hilton Hotel on Thursday June 5.