The annual event always proves popular with traders, residents and visitors and Shrewsbury BID is once again teaming up with Shrewsbury Business Chamber to run the competition with the aim of transforming the town into a sea of colour. 

This year’s competition will be run along similar lines to last year’s hugely successful event. Applications are now open and traders have until November 30 to submit their entry. 

Jenny Osborne, of Shrewsbury Business Chamber, said: “It is incredible to think that we have once again arrived at the point of the year where we are inviting businesses to enter our Shrewsbury Christmas Window Competition. 

“We had a terrific response last year and are hoping to encourage everyone in the town centre to participate this time around. 

“It’s a magical season and we just can’t wait to see the creativity of our traders brought to life through their festive window displays. 

“Prizes for the winners have been generously donated by Henshalls Insurance Brokers and certificates will be awarded for the winner and runner-up in each category, with the overall winners being presented with a trophy. 

“It is a real chance for our traders to put themselves in the shop window at this very special time of year, so it’s time to get busy decorating those windows - we can’t wait to see what you come up with.” 

This year’s theme is ‘A Shrewsbury Christmas’, the competition is free to enter and there are several categories: smaller shops, sponsored by Hatchers; larger shops, sponsored by Portland Financial Planning; and charity shops, sponsored by Kingsland Wealth Management. 

People will be able to vote for their favourite on the Original Shrewsbury website – look out for updates on social media. 

Last year’s smaller shops category was won by Penny Farthing with Deja Brew taking the runners-up spot; the larger shops winner was won by Meg Hawkins Art with Tanners Wines runners-up; and the charity shops category was won by the Salvation Army shop with the Home Essentials charity shop runners-up. 

Emma Molyneux, of Shrewsbury BID, said: “Our shop window competitions are always eagerly anticipated. They are warmly embraced by traders and looked forward to by shoppers - bringing an increased vibrancy to the town. 

“We are delighted to partner Shrewsbury Business Chamber once again following the success of last year and hope as many people as possible will take part in what is one of the busiest times of the year.” 

To enter the competition, visit https://shrewsburybid.co.uk/christmas-window/