THE Best Dressed Shop Window in Crediton this Christmas in the “Crediton Courier” competition, run in association with Crediton Chamber of Commerce, was Snob at 6 High Street, Crediton.

The judges, former Mayor of Crediton, Gillian Ponsford, former “Courier” editor, Sue Read, and Benjamin Evans 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 it was an outstanding display, complete with sacks of toys, Barbie dolls, Christmas tree mannequin dresses and decorations.

Emma Ranson-Bellamy, who runs Snob, said the result was “a lovely welcome to Crediton”, commenting on the fact that her shop was relatively new to the town.

Placed second in the competition, which had a Santa’s Toy Shop theme, was the display by Mike Selby of Antiques and Vintage.

Sue Read praised the window saying it must have taken hours to attach all the chandelier lights.

The Hospiscare charity shop was awarded third place and depicted a home scene.

Highly Commended was In a Pikkle, which had a traditional toy shop scene complete with artificial window panes.

Others which the judges praised were Kathea, Hair @97, Town and Countrywear, Adams Home Hardware, A E Lee Outfitters, Vape and Bath, Boka, Age Concern, Crediton Care Services Ltd, Deep End Pools, JJ’s, Candimama, the ELF shop, Bits and Pieces, Stevie B’s, Crediton Card Centre, Crediton Cobbler, Kirton Clothing Company, Olivia James Design and Groomed to Pawfection.

Mr Evans congratulated all those who had worked hard on creating some stunning window displays.

Sue Read and Gillian Ponsford agreed that the displays helped to brighten the town and certainly helped to encourage people to shop locally.

Mrs Ponsford added: “The standard was far better in the town this year than ever before.”

She said she was “delighted” that more shops than ever took part this year.

Certificates were presented to the four businesses with the best windows.

Prizes, to third place, were donated by the “Crediton Courier”, co-ordinator of the annual competition.

The winning entry was awarded the “Crediton Chamber of Commerce” Rose Bowl for the Best Dressed Window.

Alan Quick