HIGH-flying Conservative MP Francis Maude has praised Swindon Council as a model authority.

The Shadow Minister for the Cabinet Office made the comments during a visit to the town yesterday afternoon.

"I think there is a real lesson to be learned here from what council leader Rod Bluh and his team are doing," said Mr Maude.

"Swindon is a model in many ways because there is a real commitment to people doing things differently and a lot of good practice that others would do well to follow."

The frontbench Conservative was in town to visit the Create Studios, in the Wyvern Theatre.

The hi-tech centre is home to film and music studios, as well as digital arts suites.

The centre moved to its new base on the Wyvern's top floor last November and opened in May.

Since then, hundreds of eager youngsters have worked on all kinds of media projects.

During his visit Mr Maude met a team of young filmmakers documenting his visit and the visit of youngsters on a marketing course.

He also met musician Barry Andrews, a member of Swindon band XTC, and a number of people with learning difficulties who had spent their day making animated films using plasticine.

Coun Justin Tomlinson, Swindon Council's cabinet member for leisure, culture, and recreation, said: "The portfolio I hold means I get to see people in Swindon having fun.

"But the enjoyment people who use this place have is second to none.

"Create is by far the most popular facility we have, its courses book up as soon as they become available and the opportunities it offers children in terms of their careers is fantastic."

After his tour Mr Maude said: "This is a brilliant facility.

"And it is great that the council has given this scheme such support because this is the future. Creative industries are a huge growth area.

"This medium is becoming crucial in terms of job creation and has a real appeal for all kinds of young people who it gets engaged with in a pro-active way."