Christmas window display competition launches for businesses across Sudbury

Businesses in Sudbury are transforming their shop windows with creative Christmas-themed displays as part of a community initiative aimed at boosting local trade over the festive season.

More than 60 businesses are taking part in this year’s Sudbury Christmas Window Display Competition, which is returning today to mark its 12th year in the town.

Businesswoman Penny Wilby, organiser of this year’s event, hopes the scheme will help to create a vibrant atmosphere, while drawing more visitors to the town.

“People like to see community spirit and there should be some really nice festive displays to explore,” she said.

With mounting pressure on high streets, Mrs Wilby is encouraging people to make a conscious effort to shop locally over the festive season.

“If people spent just £10 at an independent store, rather than online, it would have a phenomenal effect,” added Mrs Wilby, from Boxford, who runs business website thebestofSudbury.

While organising social networking events, she said people often commented on the convenience of free short-stay parking in the town.

“Free parking is a massive benefit,” said Mrs Wilby, 45. “If it ever stopped, it would have a seriously negative effect on the town.”

Sudbury town mayor Robert Spivey will be judging the festive displays alongside Sudbury town council’s new centre manager Rachel Price and Waitrose supermarket deputy manager Richard Upton, with their choices equating to half of the votes.

All public votes must be submitted by Thursday, December 19, before the winner of the competition is announced on December 23.

Voters will be automatically entered into a prize draw for the chance to win a festive hamper, courtesy of Waitrose.

Angelo Smith family jewellers won last year’s competition with their magical miniature village.

Senior partner John Hume said: “I think it’s great to have it in the town. It’s not about winning, it’s about taking part.”

The public can start voting for their favourite festive design by going online to https://sudbury.sendmedetails.com/xmaswindowdisplay2019 or by filling out a form at the town hall or library.

We will print our own coupon in next week’s Free Press.