THE GOAN Volunteers Group and South Swindon Parish Council held an event on Sunday at GWR Park to mark India’s Independence Day.

The Swindon Goan Volunteers is a group of individuals of all ages from the Goan Community who are looking to help Swindon’s residents, local charities and work with all communities.

During Covid, the group was fortunate to have been able to set up food donation banks running from homes and garages, delivering essentials to those who needed it most.

The event organisers invited a senior citizen from the community Mr Martinho Micael Dias to be the guest of honour to hoist the Indian flag, which was followed by both the Indian & British National anthems.

Councillor Imtiyaz Shaikh said: “We had such a lovely crowd from all communities attending this event who applauded the great initiative and appreciated the love we have for India and United Kingdom.

“Today was a nostalgic day and took us back in time to India.

“Britain is our home and we have been welcomed with open arms and have been given the opportunity of equality for all.

“It is important to continue building our communities and cultural links, as this is the way to progression.”