AN organisation that has been running in Royal Wootton Bassett for more than half a century has closed.

The Townswomen’s Guild is one of the largest women’s organisations in the country with around 550 associations.

It aims to create friendships and encourage women to involved with events and try new things.

Chairman of the guild in Wootton Bassett, Vivien Warburton, announced its closure after 58 years in the town.

She said: “It is with deep sadness and regret that the Wootton Bassett Townswomen’s Guild has now closed.

“I have stepped down as chair for personal reasons and there was no-one left to take over. Most of our ladies had been on committee, or in office as chair or treasurer several times over and they do not feel capable of doing the roles justice now.”

Over the years the guild has donated money to charities in the town, supported events such as Lyneham open days and held multiple coach trips every year.

The members’ final meeting was a Christmas meal featuring the Tuneless Choir and celebrated the guild's 58th anniversary.

Vivien said: “We normally celebrate our birthday with something special and this year was no exception. In looking back, I won’t pick out specific events, speakers or trips, as all have been good in their own way.

“Members of our group have formed good strong bonds with the town and with each other and will remain this way. Now we have closed, we offer a fond farewell to a great group of people.”

The guild has been involved in many of the community events including the town carnival and Dickensian nights.

It has set up many cake and tombola stalls to help raise funds for the organisation.

For one of its last events members went along to the Christmas is Coming ceremony, where a festive selection of flowers was arranged.

Vivien said: “If any younger ladies would like to start a new Townswomen’s Guild then they should go to the website for help.”

Anyone wanting to help bring the guild back to life can go to the-tg.com for advice.