Plans for a large combined authority for the region are stalling

“Perhaps they don’t like the cut of Swindon’s jib,” said Sumner. “Perhaps they think they’re too good for us.

“I’m really proud of our town and I’m upset when people think less of us and that’s how it feels with two ends of the Thames Valley.”

Windsor and Maidenhead council leaders also objected to the most recent plans, partly on the basis that a Foundation Strategic Authority was being proposed, instead of one run by a Mayor.

But on Swindon, Liberal Democrat Bearder said: “I don’t think its a good fit. You would have to rearrange all the boundaries.”

It is hoped under combined authorities, mayor and deputy mayors would also oversee things like the police and fire services – but currently Swindon’s services operate in Wiltshire.

“It makes sense to have the set-up with Swindon staying in Wiltshire,” Bearder said.

Meanwhile, Wiltshire Council leaders are looking to form a Wessex Mayoral Authority with nearby Somerset, Dorset and Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.

Some leaders across Oxfordshire and Berkshire are keen on Swindon being involved.

Labour leader of Oxford City Council Susan Brown said it was “vital” Swindon was part of the Thames Valley.

“We’re incredibly closely connected in terms of our economies,” she said.