HAIRDRESSER Michael Clarke is celebrating the success of a safety campaign to improve a dangerous kerb in Melksham town centre.

Railings will be put up along Bank Street early next year, preventing shoppers from falling off the 18 inch-high pavement.

Mr Clarke, 57, who runs Clarkies hairdressers in Bath Road, praised 800 residents who helped push for safety works by signing a petition.

He said: "I'm thrilled with the support from Melksham Town Council, Melksham First, Wiltshire County Council and the generous public who helped me to make the high pavement in Bank Street a safe place for all the people of Melksham.

"Thanks should also be extended to Sainsbury's who donated £60,000 towards improvements in Bank Street.

"It shows what can be achieved when everybody works together."

The campaign was launched last year after Trowbridge pensioners, George and Deirdre White, fell off the kerb and into the road.

Mr Clarke said he knew scores of people who had fallen off the pavement, but was pleased action was finally being taken.

He has another reason to celebrate next year, as 2004 marks his 40th anniversary as a hairdresser in the town.

"It will be a cause for double celebration, as not only will I be celebrating the anniversary of a long established business but hopefully the railings will be finished as well," said Mr Clarke.

More than 700 people voted on a preferred design for the railings after

drawings of three prop-osals were displayed in Sainsbury's, Melksham Library and the town hall.

Town councillors plumped for the most popular option, blacking railings with lamps on top, which was supported by 46 per cent of voters.

There will also be three access gates allowing businesses without rear access to receive deliveries.