Swindon twinned with Disney World

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A UK town associated with the railways and the motor car will now be officially linked with... Walt Disney World.

Swindon in Wiltshire, famous for its old rail works and site of a major Honda car factory, was selected today as the first ever twin town of Florida-based Walt Disney World.

It was chosen thanks to the efforts of Swindon resident Rebecca Warren, 20, who produced a winning video slideshow extolling the virtues of the town.

The 24 other competing towns included Blackpool, Brighton, Aberdeen and Cambridge.

Miss Warren, who works for a building society, will jet off to Florida with her nephew, Aaron, 11, and niece, Amy, five, to unveil a "Walt Disney World Twinned with Swindon" plaque.

Also, Swindon will be the venue next month for a "twinning ceremony" which will include a celebratory party.

Miss Warren said today: "I still cannot believe that my entry has been selected - it's fantastic. What a great opportunity for Swindon."

Hugh Wood, of Disney Destinations International, said: "Britain clearly has a love for Walt Disney World and long-standing affinity with the parks and their magic, which is probably why the number and quality of entries received was so high."