MELKSHAM Town Hall went red, white and blue over the weekend in solidarity with the French following the Paris attacks on Friday.

Paul Weymouth, the owner of Light Fantastic, who is arranging this year's Christmas lights, decided to illuminate the hall after seeing other buildings lit up around the world.

Councillors were unanimous in their support for the flag, especially as Melksham is twinned with Avon, a town only 72km from Paris.

David Hawkins, the stand-in-chair and treasurer of the Melksham and District French Twinning Association, said: "We were absolutely shocked and saddened by the events of Friday in Paris. No words can describe our concern at these barbaric acts. It is difficult to believe that anyone could have committed such atrocities.

"It makes twinning all the more important - to keep our friendships and support one another through these difficult moments. Twinning friendships bridge countries, culture and religion."

Along with the lights, the Union Jack and the French flag have been placed at half mast at the town hall.

Mr Weymouth, 35, from Melksham, said: "It is good for Melksham to make a show of solidarity. This sort of thing goes on all around the world but when it is so close to home it is like it is happening in London or Bristol.

"It was a little idea I had in my head. I was just passing and thought I can change it over. It is nice to go and do stuff like that to make us stand out and show our support for the French people.

“I knew other places were doing it so I just thought that we could do the same. I checked with the council because it is a little political. It has gone down exceptionally with everyone. It is up to the council how long they keep the lights up for."

In May Melksham celebrated its 35th year of being twinned with Avon with a reception held by Mayor Terri Welch at the town hall.

Ben Anderson, councillor for Melksham, said: "It is very important. The twinning relationship between Melksham and Avon is an important one and it is times like this that I believe show the strength of our relationship."

The attacks on Friday night in Paris by gunmen and suicide bombers hit a concert hall, a major stadium, restaurants and bars, almost simultaneously leaving at least 129 people dead and hundreds wounded.