IT is a pity that because of its position in the middle of a residential area the 1,800-year-old Roman temple site at Abbey Meads is unlikely to become a regular tourist draw.

Nevertheless we shouldn't lose site of its major importance to Britain's heritage.

It would be a waste of an opportunity not to visit the site on National Archaeology Day, July 23, and take part in one of county archaeologist Roy Canham's guided tours.

The site is part of the nation's, as well as Swindon's, history and it could be a long time before we are offered another chance like this.