Now Swindon has tabled its bid to become the home of a new government railway headquarters, the full list of towns and cities vying to win the honour has been revealed. 

The government has launched a competition for the home of a new headquarters outside London for Great British Railways (GBR), which will become the single, accountable body responsible for running Britain’s railways.

Transport secretary Grant Shapps announced on Twitter entries had now closed and that 42 places around the country were in the running. 

"The first stage of the GBR HQ comp has closed and it's amazing to see 42(!!!) places across the country come forward to be the new home of Great British Railways," he said. 

"It’s full steam ahead as we build the shortlist for the public vote"

He also shared an image, showcasing every entrant, with applications coming from all over England and Scotland. 

Among Swindon's competition is Greater Manchester, West of England Combined Authority, Southampton, Liverpool. Newcastle, Edinburgh, Birmingham and York. 

Swindon Borough Council, which submitted the bid with the support of both of of the town's Conservative MPs, is hoping that the town's distinct railway history with Isambard Kingdom Brunel will help it stand out. 

The town's bid received cross party support with Tory council leader David Renard and Labour counterpart Jim Grant both backing it. 

This Is Wiltshire: Swindon railway worksSwindon railway works

Coun Renard said: “The railways are part of Swindon’s DNA and I believe there is no better place for the new Great British Railways to have its headquarters.

Coun Grant added: “Swindon has a winning combination and has the full support of the Swindon Labour group. This can be a win for the town, and I am proud to say everyone I have spoken to is behind the Council on this. Swindon is behind this.”

The government will now draw up a shortlist of entries which will then go to a public vote, with the winner being the location that receives the most votes.