OLD Town gardens were transformed into hives of bric-a-brac and bargains as residents brought out their unwanted items for the annual yard sale on Sunday.

A welcome break in the clouds brought the community out into the streets to mingle and sell or swap goods in the fourth event of its kind.

Organised by the Eastcott Community organisation, bargain-hunters could also make the most of pampering sessions and face painting at Savernake Social Hall.

Many residents turned out their homes for the first time as they got into the community spirit.

Gabriella Gordon, 46, of Hythe Road, had always been busy in previous years but decided to try her hand at sales for the first time.

“It has been really popular in previous years but we have always been away or doing other things,” she said.

“We are selling a bit of everything, mainly things the children don’t need any more. They have all grown out of everything, so we have done a clear-out of the loft.

“We’re not looking to make a set figure or even sell everything. People have made between £50 and £60 in previous years, which isn’t bad going when you are selling everything for 50p each.

“It is a nice community thing because everybody wanders around, and a lot of the people selling will go and buy things from other people so it is a bit of a swap really.

“The Savernake community group are so good at organising everything, so it is good to give them a bit of support.”

Matthew Evans, of Savernake Street, is new to the area. He said: “We have not been living here long so this is the first time we have joined in.

“We have got a lot of baby stuff to get rid of, and this is a good way to get it ready for car boot fairs.

“That was the impetus for us to get involved.

“The community centre does quite a lot and it’s great to get out in the community like this.”

Caroline Davies-Khan, of Eastcott Community Organisation, said the support for the event has always been impressive.

She said: “We had around 22 signed up but seeing as it is nice weather we expect a few more will get on board. We have got both the churches selling as well, and the response has been just fantastic. Raye Leonard introduced it in 2010 and last year got in touch with Eastcott to see if we could help organise it. Each time it happens it really builds the interest, and we always have lots of people wanting to have a rummage around.

“All people have to do is sit out in their front garden and make some money. It is a really good community event and a good way to recycle.”

Resident Raye, who started the sale, said: “We have got a real variety of things being sold, and my mum has even raided her wardrobe.

“We have got face painters and an area where people can sit down and have a break, and the pamper session is a new addition. We like trying new things with it and making it a bit different and exciting for the community.”