TRADERS who have banded together to put their road in Devizes on the map are now hoping to win a national prize.

The Sidmouth Street Committee has entered the road in the town centre into the Great British High Street competition which is searching for the best in the country.

It is hoping to win the category aimed at retailers and town councils who have made efforts to revitalise an area. Sidmouth Street has seen its fortunes flourish since Devizes Town Council revamped Albion Place and street festivals are staged twice a year.

The committee is now getting ready for its Winter Festival which will be held on November 25 and 26.

Iain Wallis, of Moonraker Bears said: “There’s a renewed buzz on our high streets and this competition is searching for the very best ideas, innovation and creativity.

“This is great news for our street and fingers crossed our entry will be successful.”

Winners will take a share of a cash prize pot and receive support and mentoring from industry experts.

This year's winter festival will start on November 25 when Sidmouth Street will host the start of the town's lantern parade. Mr Wallis said: "Many shops staying open later to give those attending the chance to pick up great Christmas presents from independent Devizes retailers.

"Santa’s grotto will be in Albion place throughout the afternoon and the Sidmouth street retailers group will be selling seasonal food and drink in to the evening."

The following day Santa will once again be greeting youngsters while the street will also be brought alive with music, entertainment and stalls.

Brendan Groves of Collectors Corner, who one of the festivals founders, said: “There will be a diverse range of acts throughout the day from musical theatre to rock and roll. We are still looking for any local dance or arts groups who would like to perform on the day. It would be great to showcase home grown talent."

Another festival founder Maddie Hill of Perfect 10 said: “It is very important to us that people are able to see what our amazing street has to offer so the traders in the street are all encouraged to join in."

Anyone interested in performing on November 26 should contact Collectors Corner. If you represent a charity or business and would like to be involved with the Winter Festival contact Maddie at Perfect 10.

The public can support the street's nomination at www.thegreatbritishhighstreet.co.uk