THOUSANDS of people were treated to the best in local music and entertainment as ChippFest 2016 came to an end following two weeks of gigs, recitals, plays and live theatre events.

The festival, held from June 24-July 2, saw events performed at venues across the town which ended with Rockin The Park on Saturday (July 2) at John Coles Park.

Chippenham FM DJ Brian Reid, organiser of the festival alongside Andy Thatcher, said: “It was very successful, I think it’s difficult to estimate the numbers because it’s a free event but I think we had about 2,000 people whereas last year we had about 900, so we were comfortably double that.

“It was a bit ropey in the morning with the weather changing so we delayed the start because of the weather from noon until 1pm but by then the sun came out and people started to arrive. We had no problems, no drunkenness or bad behaviour.

“Everything was cleared up, after all the bands had gone I looked over the park and there was not one bit of rubbish, people really respected the space.”

Bands and artists to perform on Saturday included Basement 83, IDestroy, Jarid Clark and Mike Dennis amongst others.

There were also performances from dance groups including Stars Dance Academy, Mob Dance and Xpression Authentic Dance to entertain local families.

“Some events on the outer edge struggled a bit with the tannoy and I think next year we’re going to try and find an enclosed space for them,” added Mr Reid.

Mr Reid added: “It’s only the second year we have done it but we have also made a lot of progress and I think there’s always room for improvement.”

“Last year we had £1,500 to spend and obviously got a lot of help from other people, but this year I think the final cost was £6,000 because of sponsors.”