AS part of events to remember the start of the First World War the town centre will be lit up with a traditional street party next week.

To mark the 100th anniversary since the start of the Great War, the inSwindon BID company is putting on a filled with activities to mark the occasion on August 9.

From 11am to 3pm, shoppers, passers by, schools, groups and societies can join in a host of activities, including a traditional street party in Wharf Green complete with music and dance themed from different decades during the past 100 years and films about the Great War being shown on the Big Screen.

Rebecca Rowland, inSwindon BID Manager, said: “It’s 100 years since the First World War and it’s important that we remember the sacrifice of the people who served and those who died and also thank them, which is why events like these are so important.

“There will be all sorts of activities on offer and they will be educational too so children can learn about the First World War and about the people in Swindon who fought in it.”

Activities on offer include bread making in the Theatre Square the old fashioned way, and large inflatables in Canal Walk for children to climb on as well as the climbing wall in Havelock Street.

There will also be a World War I British Army recruitment stand with weapons, posters, equipment and accessories from 1914 in The Parade.

Rebecca said: “We’re hoping it will be a good turn out, there is a lot going on and lots of entertainment throughout the day.”

During the day there will be a number of themed performances based on different decades.

Representing the 1920s will be Graham and Ann from Hoppin Mad Charleston dance class and a performance from the Pheonix Players.

Nathan Jones All Star Jazz Band with Ballroom dancing will represent the 1930s, and Nathan Jones with some swinging tunes and Erica and Cliff Lindy hop dance class and performance will represent the 1940s.

A performance from Josie and the Outlaw, representing the 1950s, will round off the afternoon.

To register for seated tickets email tickets@inswindon.com with the number of free seats you require.

Visitors could learn new boxing skills from members of Swindon’s Scrapstore club.

The event was part of a daily programme, coinciding with the Commonwealth Games, currently taking place in Glasgow to encourage people of all ages to get involved in sport.

The events have been organised by Swindon Council, Swindon Sports Forum and inSwindon with clubs, from all sports, running different sessions each day.

Highlights of the programme have included golf, football, basketball, fencing and rugby classes.

Chris Bailey, from Swindon Street Games, said: “This programme is a great thing for all involved. It is a good opportunity for clubs to get out and meet the public to give them a taster of what they do while it is also a chance for young people to learn more about sports they might be unfamiliar with.”

The final day of the roadshow is today and it will see representatives from Swindon Dolphins help participants make a splash by giving out swimming tips.

The closing event of the programme will be running from 11am until 3pm.