PLANS are already under way to make next year’s Old Town Festival the biggest and best so far.

This year’s event saw hundreds of music lovers watching dancers, singers and musicians of all ages.

Now organisers are calling on anyone who wants the opportunity to perform next summer to get in contact.

Josie Williams, who is on the organising committee, said the style does not matter because there will be a place for everything.

She said: “We want to hear from anyone who wants to take part.

“Whether it is children who want to do a dance or bands who want to perform in front of a large crowd, get in touch.”

The festival, which has been running for more than 100 years, is a highlight of the summer calendar.

This year saw crowds line the street for the closing parade, which was headed up by the Cricklade Band and included children from King William Street School dressed as Egyptians, the Britannia Majorettes and pupils from Lethbridge Primary School.

“The festival is about celebrating the talent of people and children in Swindon,” said Josie, who is also the community arts development officer at Commonweal School.

“They are the ones who put on the show and it is a great demonstration of everything there is to offer in Swindon.

“This year’s event was very successful so we are looking to beat that again this year. The only thing we need to hope for is that the weather stays good.

“Even if the sun doesn’t shine everyone will have a fantastic time, just like this year.

“If people want to see the talent Swindon has to offer then the Old Town Festival will be the perfect place.”

The festival runs from June 27 until July 5. It starts with a pop concert in the Commonweal Marquee on The Lawn on June 27.

This is followed the next day by the Family Day at The Lawn. On July 5 the festival concludes with a pop concert at The Bowl in the Town Gardens.

There may be further dates added in the coming months.

If anyone is interested in taking part then they should contact the organisers at josie@commonweal.

co.uk