THE riverside in Melksham will be brought to life at the weekend with a spring festival.

The event, organised by Melksham First, aims to encourage a discussion of how the River Avon can be best used in the future, as well as providing entertainment.

Nicki Coyne of Melksham First said: "This is the first event of its kind for Melksham, focusing the public mind in a fun and entertaining way. The river is a phenomenal asset, so we want to generate and maintain interest in its future across the entire community.

A wide range of events, including music, and art workshops, Irish dancing, a falconry display and children's rides will provide a day of family entertainment.

Also appearing will be Westbury singer MiMi, who was one of the BBC Song for Europe finalists last year.

There will also be stalls at the event from groups including the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust and British Waterways.

Boat trips organised by the Wilts and Berks Canal Trust will allow people to enjoy a closer look at the river, where they will be joined by canoeists and river rescue displays by Copper-Avon.

Organiser Carolyn Beale said: "At the moment too many people walk over the town bridge without paying much attention to the river below and what an asset it could be.

"This event will demonstrate just how it could be used to its full potential in the future."

The feedback from the festival will be discussed at a waterways conference at Melksham Assembly Hall on April 22.