A COMPETITION to find the best places in Swindon is being launched by the town's Civic Trust.

People are being asked to nominate their favourite spots in a bid to boost local morale.

Trust chairman John Monniot said: "Swindon is seldom regarded an exciting place, but a closer look can reveal quite the opposite.

"Hopefully this competition will make more people see this and celebrate Swindon."

The Swindon Civic Trust was formed two years ago to improve the development of the town. The Trust, which has 100 members, hopes to display the nominations in the former Railway Museum in Faringdon Road by the end of Autumn.Mr Monniot said: "Anywhere within the borough of Swindon that can be accessed by the public is an eligible entry. People can choose anything from a lively dance floor to a peaceful park, so the scope is endless."

Stressing the importance of being creative, he said entries could be in a variety of media.

He added: "People can explain their choice of place with a poem, video tape or painting, for example. We want them to be as original and imaginative as possible."

Speaking personally, he named the rose garden in the Town Gardens, Old Town, as his choice, saying: "It is extremely peaceful and close to where I live, so I can visit it to collect my thoughts."

The competition is split into four categories 6 to 12-year-olds, 13 to 17 years, over 18s and group entries.

Former Swindon mayor Arthur Archer, praised the idea.

Mr Archer, 77, from Rodbourne Cheney, said: "It is great to hear something positive being done for the town. We are spoilt for choice with wonderful beauty spots."

Among his preferred attractions are Lydiard Park, Queen's Park and Coate Water.

He said: "Lydiard Park is exceptional because you can be transported back to a different era, right on Swindon's doorstep."

In-coming council leader Mike Bawden (Con, Old Town & Lawns) is also a fan of Coate Water.

He said: "Coate Water is a beautiful setting and encompasses part of Swindon's history because it used to be the storage tank for our canal system. It is a fantastic facility and the wildlife helps make it a haven of peaceful relaxation."

Competition entries should be sent to the former Railway Museum, Faringdon Road, SN1 5BJ and headed Swindon Civic Trust competition.

For more information call Swindon 520592.