The former home of Swindon's Hindu Temple is being knocked down.

For many years, the building on Cheney Manor Industrial Estate hosted religious festivals, community events, and sessions for worship and prayer as the temple's team rented the site from Swindon Borough Council

But a series of break-ins prompted the committee in charge of the place of the temple to start working with the local authority and Hindu Samaj Swindon to find a safer and more secure spot to host these cultural activities.

During the months of preparation and discussions, a sixth break-in happened in January 2022 on the first day of celebrations for Republic Day of India, and was described as a hate crime as ornamental deities and decorations had been thrown to the floor.

Last August, volunteers transformed the space above Chaat Café in Regent House, Theatre Square into a temple that has a seven-year lease, and welcomed its first visitors for community activities last September.

The temple officially opened in its new home last month, which has been described as a "colourful, vibrant and welcoming hub for everyone."

Swindon Advertiser: Picture: DAVE COXPicture: DAVE COX (Image: Dave Cox)

Overall, 479 days passed between the closure of the old temple and the new one welcoming its first guests.

Meanwhile, the Cheney Manor site has been sold off to a new owner who seems to have decided that the building is no longer fit for purpose or suitable for any potential new tenants.

Hindu Temple chairman Pradeep Bhardwaj told the Adver: "We were not aware of any such plans to demolish the building.

"Of course, there is a feeling of great sadness as we have so many memories from the place."

The rusted gates of the old temple are shut while the building is being knocked down. The front wall of the structure has been destroyed, leaving its innards open to the elements.

Construction site vehicles clear away piles of debris, as the broken brickwork lies scattered on the ground.

It is not yet known what, if anything, will be built on this part of the industrial estate once the existing building is no longer standing.

Swindon Advertiser:

The new temple in the town centre has just held festivities for the Bliss of Hare Krishna kirtan and started Kuchipudi Dance classes.

Visit the Swindon Hindu Temple and Community Centre's website (www.locaji.co.uk/wiltshire/swindon/swindon-hindu-temple-and-cultural-centre/383095/) or its Facebook page for updates on upcoming events, festivals and religious ceremonies.