by Alan Quick

THE annual competition for the Best Decorated Shop Window with a “Santa’s Toy Shop” theme run by the “Crediton Courier” in association with Crediton Chamber of Commerce, will take place during the afternoon of Monday, November 28.

There is no entry fee and all shops in the High Street, Union Road and around the Town Square will be judged.

Those not in the High Street, Union Road or Town Square area who wish to be judged are asked to contact Alan Quick by email: [email protected] to ensure the judges visit to take a look.

Last year the winning entry was the shop window at Candimama.

The winning entry receives the “Crediton Chamber of Commerce” Rosebowl.

The judges, former Mayor of Crediton, Gillian Ponsford, former “Courier” editor, Sue Read, and Phil Cork of Crediton Dairy walked the length and breadth of Crediton’s High Street, Market Street, Pannier Market, North Street, and Union Road to find the winner.

Gillian Ponsford said the winning entry was an outstanding display, complete with snowflakes, lights, sweets and decorations.

Placed second in the competition, which had a Christmas/Fairy Tale theme, was the display by Nessies Bistro in East Street.

Sue Read praised the window saying it had “Christmas all wrapped up” with two trees made of lights and presents galore.

Susan’s Flower Shop was awarded third place. The wings on a figure in the window display were decorated with flowers and she held a wand, the display complete with flashing lights and snowflakes.

Evans Newsagents was awarded a Highly Commended for a display with a “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” theme.

Town and Countrywear shop window display, highly-praised had a “Cinderella” theme and featured a fireplace, chestnuts roasting, a pumpkin, crib scene and hand-knitted decorations on a tree.

Certificates and other prizes go to the winner and runners-up each year.

Where possible, it is hoped that windows will be in place on Saturday, November 26, to link with the Christmas in Crediton Lights Switch On and Parade.

Motorists are reminded that the A377 will be closed through Crediton for the parade from 4pm to 6pm and alternative routes will be signposted. Some roads will also be closed in the area of Crediton Town Square until 7pm.