BALLGOWNS and black ties were the dress code as Trowbridge Town Council hosted its yearly civic dinner and dance in glamorous style.

Pearl invitations and menus were printed for the event, held at Trowbridge Civic Hall on Friday, to mark the town council's 30th anniversary.

Air cadets from Trowbridge's 2196 Squadron ushered in the mayor's invited guests, including west Wiltshire MP Dr Andrew Murrison and Wiltshire's High Sheriff David Newbigging.

Bath University band the Flashback Cowboys and the Wiltshire Rural School of Music provided the entertainment, while town crier Trevor Heeks took on the role of toastmaster.

A five-course dinner was followed by speeches and the handing out of town awards.

Deputy mayor Grace Hill presented this year's Civic Award to the chairman of Trowbridge Civic Society, Margaret Howard, for her charitable work in the town.

Mrs Howard, who is involved in the life of St James's Church, said she was honoured at the recognition.

"It was totally out of the blue. It really is the best-kept secret in Trowbridge," she said.

"I am the eighth person from St James's to win this award. Faith is a very central part of my life.

"I am proud of the town and want to show people things do happen. I am on cloud nine."

The Town Enhancement award was awarded to EJ Shanley for the renovation of 9 Church Street now DK Residential estate agents the oldest house in Trowbridge.

Historian Ken Rogers paid particular attention to the soon to be relocated county Record Office and the town museum in his speech on behalf of the guests.

Trowbridge mayor Glyn Bridges, who delivered a speech focusing on the ongoing improvements in the town centre, said the event was "spot-on".

"As far as I was concerned the event was very enjoyable. It was nice to have a theme for the event by incorporating our 30th anniversary as a town council", he said.

"I wanted my speech to concentrate on why we should be proud of Trowbridge.

"It is a working town, a caring town, and a friendly town. You only have to look at the large number of voluntary organisations to see this."

Event organiser Christine Scrivens said she was delighted everything went to plan.

"We have had e-mails from people saying it went well. The food was fabulous and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves."