MALMESBURY’S high street was looking in a desperate state not so long ago.

During the recession shops lay empty and shutters were drawn, as tumbleweed rolled by.

Thanks to the stubborn determination of councillors and the foresight of shop owners to invest in the town, the high street is now flourishing.

The addition of two hours free parking to a car park in Malmesbury has undoubtedly helped trade in recent months.

Local traders have praised the decision from local councillors as they see the high street go from strength to strength.

People visiting the town are staying longer, and shop owners are reaping the rewards.

Late Night Christmas Shopping also proved a hit once again this year.

High street shops had bumper nights and Malmesbury was alive, with hundreds turning out to support the town.

It’s events like these that not only bring the community closer together, but keep high street shops in the black and give them that boost they need going into the end of the year.

So, Malmesbury high street model seems to be working largely. However, with a number of shop owners applying for permission to turn their building into residential space, some shops are being left behind.

Let’s hope solutions can continue to be found and Malmesbury can carry on flourishing.