The unveiling of XhibitA on Saturday marked the first official public recognition of one of Swindon’s most influential bands, ending years of calls from fans for a lasting memorial.
Hundreds of supporters gathered for the unveiling before making their way to the Town Gardens Bowl, where EXTC, led by original XTC drummer Terry Chambers, performed a sold-out concert exactly 50 years after XTC first appeared at the venue.
The tribute has been created by Wiltshire-based fans Mike Smith and Graham Carter, who launched the project after feeling the band had never received the recognition it deserved in its hometown.
Following approval from South Swindon Parish Council, XhibitA has been installed permanently in Queens Park, which was chosen for its heritage and increasing role as a cultural venue.
Graham Carter said:
“We are delighted that the long quest has finally been realised to provide a focus for visits to Swindon by local, national and international fans of XTC, formally recognise the band’s contribution to the cultural landscape of the town, and recognise XTC’s considerable and lasting contribution to popular music.”
He added:
“This is particularly significant, and, we hope, inspiring, in a year when Swindon is bidding to become the UK’s City of Culture 2029.”
The installation was funded through community donations rather than public money, with almost £6,000 raised by supporters in the UK and overseas, including contributors from the United States, Japan, Australia, South Africa, Spain and France.
Project organisers say any money remaining after costs will be donated to a Swindon school that supports children with autism spectrum condition and social communication interaction difficulties, helping provide additional music opportunities for pupils.
The unveiling was followed by an emotional return to the Town Gardens Bowl, where EXTC performed on the same stage where XTC played in 1976.
The concert formed part of the venue’s 90th anniversary celebrations and brought together fans from across the UK and further afield to celebrate the band’s music in the town where its story began.
For many supporters, the combination of the permanent memorial and anniversary performance marked a significant moment in Swindon’s cultural history.
After decades without an official landmark celebrating the band, visitors to the town now have a permanent place recognising XTC’s contribution to music and their enduring connection with Swindon.
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