A bit of rain didn't stop our intrepid Our Town regulars from enjoying the first day of Chippenham's first ever Fringe February aka #FringeFeb! After coffee at Grounded they headed off into town to find what the streets and shops had to offer.
First stop was the RSPCA charity shop where the Knatty Knitters group had set themselves up in the window for the weekend. We agreed this idea was genius and the ladies were a ray of sunshine that lit up the day. Chatty and welcoming and happy to pose for photos, so we were equally happy to take some for their records. They also had some wool for sale and eagle-eyed Michelle nabbed a ball of red wool for the forthcoming poppy project all Chippenham WI's are exploring.
There was so much more to explore. Poetry found pretending to be street signs, shelf markers in Waterstones, labels in Hand of Glory, and postcards in shops or in the Library in the case of the pictured example. We also took in the Goldiggers exhibition at the Museum, where reminisces of nightclub attendance AND cinema showings were soon flowing. It's amazing that Chippenham had so many A-List celebrities and bands top the bill; too bad it wasn't saved as a community resource instead of demolition.
We became experts in finding the best shelter along the way and nowhere better was the Buttercross, where the Knatty Knitters had put their latest yarnbombed handiwork on display. They've made fun additions to the town at Christmas, Remembrance Day and other occasions, and this time was no exception. There's so much going on in town over the weekend to turn Chippenham into #Hippenham: lots of dance, music, food, and performance for starters, alongside a Culture Cafe and Picturing the Moon. Pewsham Belles continue their #FringeFeb support this evening, with trips to see Instant Wit at The Cause and the Sahara Sisters at the Citadel. We'll also look out for any results from the Department of Complaints - the librarians were a bit worried about their performance due there this afternoon, as they have a couple of serial complainers who might be tempted to join in! Congratulations to the myriad organisers, performers, other participants, and venues involved. All your efforts are much appreciated and we look forward to next year!