CHIPPENHAM residents gathered around the Christmas tree for some classic festive songs last week ahead of the big day.

The event began at 4.30pm in Market Place and included performances by the Big Soul Gospel Choir from Salisbury and the Dance Academy in Chippenham.

There were also fireworks above the Emery Gate Shopping Centre which had been planned for the town’s light switch-on event but which were postponed due to strong winds.

Chippenham Mayor Terry Gibson said: “Christmas in Chippenham has done exceedingly well, I wasn’t at the light switch-on but I spoke to lots of people and they all said how good it was.

“The carols around the Christmas tree event was well attended, the gospel choir were fantastic and this was followed by a few carols from the public.

“The whole of Christmas has been supported, we’ve had various carol concerts and the town gave out a positive vibe and everything has been well attended.”

Ben Gregory, chair of the Chippenham BID board of directors, said: “While we were disappointed we couldn’t have the fireworks at the Christmas light switch-on as planned due to drastic changes in wind direction, it added an extra bit of sparkle to our carols by the Christmas tree event.”