One thing that I am sure readers will agree with me on is that the sense of community spirit is very high here in Wiltshire and the number of people who volunteer in the area is indicative to this.

I would like to congratulate all those involved with Chippenham Folk Festival. Once again it was a real testament to the strength of our community and town. It was so lovely to see the town flourishing and has strengthened my determination to work to ensure that Chippenham town centre is once again a real centre of community and business activity.

I particularly enjoyed participating in the Jazz Evensong at St Andrew’s Church. The modern twist to the service was well received by the enthusiastic congregation. Leading the actions during a hymn, I must admit that I did feel like I was teaching a dance routine in a church. I was honoured to assist Nic Pillow who organised the special service.

We need to note, celebrate and encourage key members of the community like Nic.

I strongly believe that in the future our community will increasingly rely on the voluntary sector. We need to embrace this group, work with it and help promote our community activists because without them our communities will wither, which is already sadly the case with our town centres. I want both to be alive, active and thriving.

Michelle Donelan, Prospective MP for Chippenham.