IT was a triple celebration for archivists at the Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre at the weekend, as they celebrated 70 years of service, ten years in Chippenham and securing national Archive Service accreditation.

Hundreds of people enjoyed the family fun day on Saturday, which was laid on for the celebrations, and complete with knights in shining armour and hidden treasures from the centre's archives.

Ruth Butler, heritage education officer, said: "It is really important for us to have the accreditation - it's like a stamp of approval for us.

"It was really nice to see so many people come and celebrate with us and enjoy some of our archives too.

"It's important to remember that our documents are about real stories and real people and it's nice to see people responding to it."

The event also included a presentation by John Glenn, the Secretary of State for Arts, Heritage and Tourism and Jeff James, chief executive and keeper of the National Archives.

Richard Clewer, cabinet member for heritage, said: “We’re delighted that so many people attended this wonderful event.

"It’s great that so many people of different ages enjoyed the items on display and learned more about the history of Wiltshire.

“It was also a pleasure to welcome John Glen MP and Jeff James to the celebration, and for presenting the Archive Service Accreditation to the Wiltshire and Swindon Archive Service.

“In the past 70 years, the archive service has collected and preserved the written heritage of people, places and communities of Wiltshire and Swindon dating back 800 years, and it has made the collection accessible to everyone.

“The Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre provides a state-of-the-art facility for the archives and heritage services, and the accreditation recognises the successful partnership between Wiltshire Council and Swindon Borough Council in delivering these services.

“We recognise how important the history centre and the archive service are to the people of Wiltshire and Swindon, and we’re proud to support them.”