Part four of the “Merson’s driving us all to drink” roadshow takes us to Swindon, and one of those places that should be a much better day out than it actually is.

Any Saddlers arriving by train could take the five minute walk into Fleet St. which is about 15 minutes walk from the ground and contains a plethora of above average drinking establishments from all the usual glitzy chains and theme houses.

Arkells is the local brewer and appropriately they sponsor the stand that houses visiting supporters, which I’m happy to inform does boast a bar.

Near the ground establishments are thin on the ground. The County Hotel on County Road right next to the ground does a nice pint of the local brew but it’s best to cover up those colours and be whistling The Worzels’ back-catalogue as you attempt to pass the bouncers.

There is parking available further along County Road at the cricket club, which is the away bar of choice for most car travellers at a small charge.

If you want to negotiate the infamous “Magic roundabout” more than once then take yourself down Drove Road (South –East exit off the third sub-roundabout) to The Merlin (formerly the Malt and Hops). This bar has been tastefully re-fitted with a multitude of TV’s and a more modern theme and is also away friendly.

A reminder that should we lose this one the Samaritans number is 08547 909090.