RETAILERS and businesses in Warminster are being urged to get their displays organised for the town council’s annual Christmas window competition to brighten up the shopping areas.

The call came as Warminster switched on its annual Christmas Lights display at 5pm yesterday.

Town council clerk Fiona Fox said: “The Christmas Window Competition was a big hit last year with everyone entering into the spirit and creating a festive feel in Warminster.

“You don’t need to do anything as every shop will be automatically entered, giving us the opportunity to showcase local businesses and sharing your windows on our Facebook and Instagram pages @warminstertowncouncil.

“It is slightly toned down from the original idea due to Covid restrictions and not encouraging people to be out unnecessarily, but it still promotes the town and makes everyone feel festive and cheerful – something we all need.”

Warminster mayor, Cllr Chris Robbins added: "We're trying to brighten up the town and encourage traders to decorate their shop windows.

"I've already seen some lovely window displays at Cordens, Jacdqueline's Bridal Boutique and the gift shop near the Athenaeum.

"We're trying to make Warminster look good, feel good and be good."

Windows should be ready by Saturday December 5 and final judging will take place during the second week of December using the following criteria:

• Spirit of Christmas

• Creativity/Originality

• Illumination

• Merchandising

• Impact

The winner of the Best Dressed Window Competition will receive a meal for two at The Agra Indian Restaurant along with a certificate and a trophy.

Cllr Robbins will award first, second, third and highly commended places.

Warminster Town Council staff will be out and about taking photographs and promoting the competition like they did last year.

Photographs can be seen at https://www.facebook.com/pg/warminstertowncouncil/photos/?ref=page_internal