THERE was a 'fantastic atmosphere' in the town centre at the first ever 'Good Evening Okehampton' late night shopping event. Taking place on the last Friday of each month from now until October, the new event aims to unite the town's pubs and eateries, shops and residents once a month with an evening of entertainment, good food, shopping and socialising. The aim of the first event was to build momentum for the coming months. Shoppers could enjoy a marquee in Red Lion Yard with a bar and live entertainment, stalls from Okehampton Farmers' Market, cream teas from Endacott's Bakery, Mexican food, taster packs from Turner's Bakehouse, and music from Wren Music. The maiden event was organised by David Pamment, owner of jewellers Purple Penguins, in conjunction with the Okehampton and District Chamber of Trade. It was inspired by a visit David took to Burbank in California, where the monthly 'Ladies Night Out' shopping event brings a party atmosphere and thousands of shoppers into the city. The chamber of trade chairperson Donna Tombs said she was 'very happy' with the inaugural event. She said: 'It was busier than expected, considering that a lot of people did not get as much notice as we would have planned. There was a fantastic atmosphere, walking through Red Lion Yard to St James' Chapel and the Arcade, which had music playing. There were quite a few people around, which was good. 'It is a case of having to get this to run a few times, get some momentum and make it an event people want to look forward to. We are happy with this first time and hope we can keep it going.' The event will run again on Friday, June 27, July 25, August 29, September 26 and October 31. The chamber is hopeful that as each event passes, more and more shoppers and businesses get involved with the event. If you wish to get involved, call into Purple Penguins or Rockin' Beads on Red Lion Yard, or call Donna Tombs at Rockin' Beads on 01837 657614.