Steam, the museum of the Great Western Railway, reckons it has the cure for boredom during the half term holidays.

On Thursday, October 31 Halloween night parents and children are invited to meet characters from the railway's past in an exhibition featuring 'living statues'.

And on November 2 and 3, a magician will give a performance of illusion and trickery. Admission costs £5.95 for adults and £3.80 for children. Call Swindon 466650 for details.