SWINDON FESTIVAL SEASON: People are already displaying their creative talents for the Think Art festival.

Around 25 local artists submitted their entries for a competition, sponsored by Nationwide Building Society, based in Pipers Way.

People of all ages who live in the area were invited to compete for the £250 Nationwide Think Art prize, which has a work and play theme.

Julie Allen, from Blunsdon,was entering for the first time.

She said: "I think the festival is a brilliant initiative. I am entering an abstract painting in ink. Hopefully the competition will encourage more people to be creative."

The entries are currently on display in a vacant shop, near the water fountain, in the Brunel Centre. Sally Taylor, 47, from Old Town, has been entering since the annual festival began three years ago. She said: "It is a good opportunity for artists to display their work."

Sculptor David Morse, 60, from Wroughton, is also a fan of the festival. "I enjoy working in 3-D more than painting, so have entered a sculpture called warrior on horse," he said.

The winners will be announced tomorrow, but the festival continues throughout June.

Rosa Matheson, director of Swindon Arts, said: "It's great to be back in the Brunel Centre. Each year the festival proves more popular and I am really pleased with the response to this competition."