Lauren HolbrookSWINDON ...AND PROUD OF IT: A YOUNGSTER'S love for Swindon has led her to become an ambassador for the town.

Ten-year-old Lauren Holbrook, was selected by judges of a I Love Swindon competition organised by McArthurGlen's Designer Outlet Village and the South West Tourism Board.

The schoolgirl's comments will now be displayed as part of a nationwide roadshow, promoting Swindon across the UK, and are expected to reach in excess of one million people.

Lauren, who lives in the town, was asked to explain, in less than 50 words, why she loved Swindon.

She said: "I love Swindon because it has really cool shops, but McArthurGlen is the best. I get all my sports clothes from there. Swindon also has fantastic places to go like the cinema, ice rink and Pizza Hut. The parks are also great, I do really love Swindon it is lots of fun."

Lauren impressed judges with her knowledge of activities available in Swindon, and won £100 of McArthurGlen vouchers for her efforts.

The 110-store shopping centre came up with its 'I love Swindon' campaign to boost the profile of the town as the perfect destination for UK holidaymakers and day-trippers.

Franco Muccini, centre manager at the Outlet Village, said: "Local children opened our eyes to how much there is to enjoy in Swindon, from the countryside to visitor attractions or simply because they think it's a fun place to live.

"We had our work cut out to select a winner but Lauren's enthusiasm for Swindon was clear.

"We were looking for comments that will encourage people to come and visit the area and Lauren's entry will certainly do that."

Lauren said: "I was really excited when I heard I had won as I've never won anything before in my life. I really love living in Swindon and I hope this makes more people come here. I've already started spending my winning vouchers at McArthurGlen on some clothes for the summer."