ART, film and debate will help mark the birthday of one of Swindon's grandest buildings today.

It was back in 1854 that Lord Methuen positioned the foundation stone of the New Mechanics' Institute.

He was watched by a crowd of 1,000 people, who then made their way to a nearby cricket ground for a great banquet.

The event today in the former Railway Museum, in Faringdon Road, might not be so grand but organisers from the New Mechanics' Institution Preservation Trust are promising a spectacular show to mark the big day.

Between 6pm and 8pm, supporters of Artsminds a group promoting arts in Swindon will showcase their works for the first time as part of their Made In Swindon theme.

From 7.30pm, there will be a chance to view the many varied artworks on display.

People will also be able to see the first public screening of Fire And Steel, what organisers call the definitive film about Swindon's railway works and its workers.

The 40-minute film was made following the factory closure 20 years ago, and took several years to film, including significant footage shot inside the massive works.

Filmmaker Martin Parry will introduce his film, and the audience will be invited to share their thoughts about the future of Swindon after the screening.

Co-ordinator Martha Parry said: "We have a film about the past, students producing artworks in the present and a lively debate about the future, so we are really looking at the past present and future of the town and this building tonight.

"It's extremely exciting, especially in the 200 year anniversary since Brunel's birth, as he is the reason the town is here and people are now beginning to understand the significance of the Mechanics' Institute and its history."

The evening will also mark the opening of The Rolling Exhibition, one of many Brunel 200 events being held locally.

The exhibition, at the former Railway Museum, will aim to illustrate the role Brunel and Sir Daniel Gooch played in the founding of Swindon, and will expand over the summer.

The nature of Swindon as a work in progress will feature as well. It will be open to the public from noon to 4pm each Saturday and Sunday until the end of October.