SPARKLING windows are lighting up Stratford’s streets.
Stratforward BID’s Christmas Window Competition this year had a Merchant of Venice inspired theme – ‘All that Glisters’.
The awards are split into independent and national businesses and both were hotly contested.
The judging team spent hours on Stratford’s streets assessing each display for factors including ‘creativity’, and ‘impact and visual appeal’.
After much deliberation, the winner of the independent category was optician Dr CP Grey on Chapel Street whose warm display was highly praised.
And for the second year running, the national award went to hair and beauty salon Jo Malone on Bridge Street.
Daisy Chain on Chapel Street was highly-commended for its fun displays and SW Salon on Ely Street got a special mention for its ‘quirky’ Alice in Wonderland display with homemade origami.
The judging team also felt an extra award should be given to Pragnell Jewellers on Wood Street for its ‘truly eye-catching display’ of lights across its frontage.
This year the BID is also backing VISA UK’s campaign to #KeepItLocalThisChristmas with its own social media campaign highlighting independent businesses and encouraging people to support them this festive season.
Stratforward BID director Joe Baconnet said: “Stratford’s businesses have pulled out all the stops to make Stratford look even more beautiful than usual. Along with the Christmas lights, our retailers and their displays help make Stratford the perfect destination for festive shopping and celebrations.
“We’re lucky to have such a thriving range of independent businesses as well as big national names, that’s why we’ve been backing VISA UK’s campaign to encourage people to shop local.”
