Music maestro Tom Bott bought all the magic of the Ritz to Marlborough Town Hall when he introduced the town’s first afternoon tea event.

Revellers were serenaded by his High Society Orchestra while they ate food provided by local caterer Sarah Hicks.

Mr Bott said: “We wanted people to be able to talk over the music – we didn’t want it to be like a concert and we seemed to find the balance.

“There were lots of happy guests who have said they will be coming back, which is just what we were hoping for.

“At least one family who attended had not been to Marlborough before.

“They thought it was great and had been shopping before the tea. It’s only one family but if that happens every time it’s great for traders.”

Two sessions were held on Sunday with a total of 110 guests attending.

The next afternoon tea will be held on March 3 with sittings at 2pm and 3.30pm. Admission is £16.50 a head.

Tickets can be bought from Mr Bott on (01672) 563501 or from Charlotte Quest’s shop at 97 High Street.