A PRO European group has decided to pull out of Friday's lantern parade in Devizes after it was suggested that its lion and unicorn sculpture was too closely associated with its anti-Brexit message.

Kate Freeman, from Devizes For The EU, has told members that they do not want to spoil the happy family atmosphere of the evening.

She said: "In this season of good will to mankind there is nothing intrinsically wrong with our 'United we stand, divided we fall' message on the sculpture.

"We have however been asked to reconsider our participation in the Devizes Lantern Parade. With regret we agree that the Lion and Unicorn sculpture is too closely associated with our anti-Brexit message. In Devizes it risks spoiling the happy family atmosphere of the evening.

"We have also agreed to enjoy an illuminated outing when we have something to celebrate. Thank you to the many volunteers who offered to help.

"Meanwhile our focus is on getting things swinging in the right direction in South Swindon."