“Self Help”, the second Mechanics Institutes Worldwide Conference, was held in the UK city of Bath in September.

The event follows the first Conference, “Buildings, Books and Beyond” held in Melbourne in 2004, and is aimed at the fraternity of Mechanics’ Institutes, Athenaeums, Schools of Arts, Literary and Philosophical Societies and other related organisations.

Hosting the conference this year was the Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution, located in the centre of the World Heritage City of Bath.

The theme of this year’s conference was “Self Help”, in recognition of the 150th anniversary of the publication of the seminal work of that title by Samuel Smiles in 1859.

Daniel Rose, Chair of the Swindon New Mechanics’ Trust pictured here gave a speech to the conference winning a letter of support from the international audience that the Trust’s efforts should be applauded and urging the Council to support the Trust in bringing the building back into community use.

Further information about the conference can be found at: http://www.brlsi.org/mechanics09/

“The Children’s Fete” Committee would like to thank all those who have contributed by means of sponsorship or donations to secure “The Children’s Fete” for 2008. Our special thanks go to:-              Alcatel-Lucent, InSwindon, Brunel FM, Williams Lea, Ray Stevens, Capita – Regent House, Mr & Mrs Bromley, Mr & Mrs Benfield, Mrs J Deacon, Mr & Mrs E Shah, Joan Clegg and Barbara Mills. Without the support of these very kind people we would not have been able to guarantee this event for 2008.  We can now look forward to another great day, full of fun and enjoyment for all those who attend on Saturday 19th July – please come and join us

This years “Children’s Fete” is on Saturday 19 July and takes place at the GWR Park, Faringdon Road, Swndon from noon. Official opening at 1.00pm with the Mayor and Town Crier, finishing with a firework display at 10.00pm.  This year we have a great selection of stalls and activities for children and adults to enjoy throughout the day, including Punch & Judy, Stories n Stuff and an under 5’s area for the little ones.  Entry is free as is he the ‘Childrens Cake at 4.00pm’  we hope you would like to come and join us and help preserve the heritage of our town for future generations to enjoy. Looking forward to another great day full of fun, sunshine, and laughter.