THERE aren't many places where you can see the Mayor lining up alongside Queen Victoria and a six-foot high pint of Guinness but you could in Swindon on Saturday.

The Old Town Festival reached its peak with a day of entertainment in Wood Street, the Lawns and the Old Town Gardens.

The highlight was the procession, led by Mary Ratcliffe as Queen Victoria, riding in a sports car and closely followed by someone disguised as a pint of Guinness.

Swindon Mayor Stan Pajak said: "This was a big event and it was great to see a lot of people there for it.

"The farmers' market was an excellent addition because it brought back the history of the area, especially as this is the Queen's Golden Jubilee year.

"We were worried about Old Town a few years ago but people are moving in and there are homes being built in the central area, which is good to see."

One of the big successes was the farmers' market, set up outside the Locarno in the High Street.

Organiser Paul Wright, who runs the market outside the town centre Market Hall on alternate Thursdays, is hoping to bring it to Old Town on a regular basis. He said: "We had a great reaction from people. It would be ideal to go there regularly."

Stilt walkers and plate spinners roamed the streets, and an old-fashioned organ grinder added to the atmosphere in the sun.

Kathy Chapman, 40, an educational support assistant from Rodbourne Cheney, said: "I saw the procession and the quality was very high."

Nurse Sue Mansfield, 32, from Old Town, said: "I've had a great time. There's been a lot for myself and my children to see and do.

"The children enjoyed the giant Jenga game and swingboats and I liked the exhibition of floral art, especially the contemporary work."