Cherish Chippenham chairman Melody Thompson believes she has put forward a compelling argument in a bid to win a £200,000 grant for the town she loves.

Mrs Thompson believes Chippenham has the potential to become the greatest success story in the South West and hopes the Revive and Thrive Partnership, which was set up to help towns flourish, will agree.

She has put forward a comprehensive business plan highlighting the town’s advantages in a bid to persuade judges it deserves the grant.

She said: “Chippenham’s credentials are extraordinary – exceptional transport links, a lovely river, a Georgian High Street, and all surrounded by beautiful countryside. Our aim is to restore it to the vibrant, thriving town it deserves to be.

“It has an ailing high street, lacks facilities for younger people, the town centre is untidy, we are losing key employers and the outward trend of commuting is rapidly increasing.”

Revive and Thrive has invited applications from towns and cities all over the country to put forward a case for why they should be chosen to receive a grant.

The firm, which offers advice and support to town centre managers, says its aim is to help as many places as possible to be revitalised.

Cherish Chippenham was set up to promote the town and create a Business Improvement District so retailers and businesses can work together on schemes to enhance the town.