VISITORS to the Old Town Festival had a fascinating insight into the history of the area with a special walk.

Blue Badge guide Cilla Slipper took an entourage on a guided tour of some of Old Town's most historically interesting sites including the Lawn and Holy Rood Church.

Later in the evening Colin Kingwell's group, Jazz Bandits performed traditional jazz at the Kings in Wood Street to an adoring crowd as part of the Swindon Jazz Festival.

This year's festival began on Tuesday and is running for an action-packed 13 days until July 4 displaying the best entertainment and culture that Old Town and Swindon has to offer.

Today the Peter King Quartet will be appearing with some of London's top session men at the Kings in Wood Street from 8.30pm to 11pm.

There are still places for the Barn Dance and Dominic Winter's auction at Lethbridge School Hall tomorrow evening featuring the eight-piece Old Swan Band.

Tickets from 01793 641107 or 490131.

In full Wimbledon spirit, there will be free tennis coaching on Sunday July 4 at the courts in Quarry Road from 10am for more information call 01793 525498.

A full programme of events is available from the Festival Offices, Howells Furniture Shop and the Tourist Information Centre priced £1.

Velvet-voiced songstress wows the audience

Anthony Osborne