PURPLE was the colour of choice in Chippenham this weekend as the town and others across the country celebrated Purple Flag weekend.

The annual event celebrates an area’s Purple Flag status, which is awarded in recognition of a town or city’s evening and night-time economy.

A number of landmarks were lit up in Chippenham, including the Town Hall and railway bridge, using the colour purple in recognition of the town’s Purple Flag status which it gained earlier this year.

The Bridge House held a night of purple celebrations on Friday including raffle and face painting in aid of charity Clic Sargent, while the Street Pastors were handing out purple goodies on Saturday night.

Purple Flag partners from the Chippenham Safer and Supportive Communities Steering Group including Wiltshire Police, Street Pastors, Chippenham BID, Chippenham Town Council and Wiltshire Council also interacted with shoppers in Market Place during the day.

Councillor Peter Hutton, portfolio holder for public protection at Wiltshire Council said: “The Purple Flag accreditation awarded to Chippenham continues to highlight the positive and proactive partnership working being undertaken with regard to community safety.

“On Saturday we were delighted to have the opportunity to engage with local residents and listen to their feedback which will be vital as we continue to look at ways of improving both safety and the night time offering in the town centre.”