SWINDON will play host to a royal visit later this month as the celebratory events to mark the 175th anniversary of the town’s creation continue.

Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, will be the guest of honour at the official naming of the new Sir Daniel Gooch Place, located immediately outside the front of the train station.

The ceremony will take place on the morning of October 20 and will include the unveiling of a specially designed nameplate honouring the man who is regarded by many as the father of new Swindon.

The Mayor of Swindon, Coun Eric Shaw, will welcome Her Royal Highness alongside civic leaders from across the town.

Local primary school pupils will also be invited to present flowers for the occasion.

Caroline Black, Project Manager for Swindon 175 who are overseeing this year’s celebrations, said: “We are thrilled and honoured that the Duchess of Cornwall will be attending one of the highlights of the Swindon 175 year.

“We wanted to give Sir Daniel Gooch the recognition he deserved and what better place to do this but at the gateway to the town.

“For The Duchess of Cornwall to accept our invitation is absolutely wonderful.

"Swindon has so much to be proud of, and for Her Royal Highness to share this important day is testament to that and a fantastic legacy for the town and the man who put us firmly on the map.”