SWINDON Arts Forum has met to discuss ideas to celebrate Isambard Kingdom Brunel's 200th birthday.

The milestone isn't until September 2006 but council bosses are keen to start the ball rolling.

Brunel, famed for designing the Great Western Railway, is seen as the man responsible for Swindon's boom in the mid-19th century.

The region is set to push the boat out for the celebrations. A steering group also helped Swindon Council with its three-year Arts strategy.

Arts groups and organisations interested in being involved in the Brunel 2006: South West project can contact Helen Miah at: hmiah@ swindon.gov.uk