THE first birthday of one of Trowbridge's most popular venues had people flocking to the town to join in the party.

Chicago Rock opened its doors in March last year and a week of celebrations marked the event last week.

Manager Ken Myton said: "Our first year has been absolutely fantastic. We have been the leading flagship Chicago Rock for the whole of the south west."

The £2m conversion of a former dance hall in Silver Street into Chicago Rock has proved immensely popular in the town.

In the Wiltshire Times survey of the best venues in the area carried out last year, it was voted top in three categories best bar, best live music venue and best cocktails.

The opening of Chicago Rock, which is a restaurant, nightclub and live music venue, has helped to reinvigorate the town and partygoers were treated to music, party games, DJs and other entertainments to celebrate its success.

It was officially opened last year by the then mayor, Jeff Osborn, who this week praised developments in the town.

He said: "I think the citizens of Trowbridge can look back on the past year with a sense of pride. They should also prepare themselves for further and more far-reaching achievements in the years ahead."