SWINDON Town players are hoping to get their hands on the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy at Wembley on March 25.

But fans will be able to hold the trophy at a special event sooner than that.

The prestigious piece of silverware will be making an appearance at the new STFC store in the Brunel Shopping Centre on Thursday, March 22, from 2pm to 5.30pm, where all Town fans will be able to get up close to the sought-after prize.

Town boss Paolo Di Canio will also be getting his first sight of the trophy, as he and three players head down to the store tomorrow to meet fans.

As well as a photo opportunity with the trophy, Swindon Town followers will be able to show the competition their true colours by entering a JPT Factor audition during the day.

Fans will be asked to sing, dance or just plead their allegiance to Town to a Johnstone’s Paint Trophy cameraman, with the most compelling efforts winning tickets to the final.

Johnstone’s Paint Trophy sponsorship manager Teresa Hardwick said: “We can’t wait to bring the trophy to Swindon and meet as many fans as possible.

“The last time we saw them all was during the area final games against Barnet when they were in fine voice.

“We want them to come along and get their pictures taken with the trophy, meet one or two of the players and even show us why they are such fanatics in front of our trophy cameraman.

“We always try to give as much back to the fans as possible, from the first round right through to the final.

“Our trophy tours represent just one activity from a seasonlong schedule and we are really looking forward to getting back to Wiltshire again to show the fans exactly what they are playing for.”

Andy Wynn, manager of The Brunel Centre, said: “We’re very excited to be able to welcome the trophy and the players into the town centre for this special appearance.

“We hope that all fans, young and old, come to the centre to have their picture taken with the silverware – hopefully before it returns to Swindon after success at Wembley.”

For further information about the event, visit www.johnstonespainttrophy.com.