BRADFORD on Avon has become Wiltshire’s capital of international culture, being taken over by many nations in preparation for the Torch Relay.

Many shops have adopted a country as part of the World For A Week project.

About 50 nations have been adopted across 90 shops and businesses, where flags are out to welcome the arrival.

Town Councillor Peter Leach said: “The World For A Week celebration shows the great community spirit the people of this town have and their eagerness to be part of such a milestone event.”

The international drive, which ends on Tuesday, was organised by the Bradford on Avon Community Area Network.

The Canal Tavern has become Turkey, Winsley’s the Seven Stars is taking inspiration from its American co-owner, Evan Metz, by becoming USA, and Ruby Red, in Silver Street, is Papua New Guinea. Bob Runyeard-Hunt, of Ruby Red, said: “After all the prominent wine countries were taken, we decided to pick somewhere that had an impact in our lives.

“So we went for Papua New Guinea, as I worked there for 20 years and I met my wife, Norma, out there, who is from the Philippines. My son, Rob, also lived out there for a while, so it is a country of great importance to us.”

After the torch passes leaves, celebrations continue all afternoon, ending with a concert featuring Mike Hoddinott Blues Allstars, Will Blake Sextet and Eton Mess at St Margaret’s Hall at 7.30pm.

For details of the celebrations, call Sophie Gover on 07843 643112 or email s.gover-10@ alumni.lboro.ac.uk.