BUSINESSES have been praised for creating a festive atmosphere throughout the town centre.

The annual Christmas Window Competition run by Knutsford Town Council has just been judged.

Knutsford mayor Cllr Peter Coan and Ian Cass, managing director of Knutsford based Forum of Private Business, toured the town centre to judge all the entries.

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Dexter and Jones were named winners for their their decal decked festive window.

Knutsford Guardian: From left, Ian Cass, director Forum of Private Business, outside Geralds with Anoushka and Alison LeeFrom left, Ian Cass, director Forum of Private Business, outside Geralds with Anoushka and Alison Lee (Image: Knutsford Town Council)

Adam Rickitt, who owns the gin bar on Princess Street with wife, Katy, said: “We’re absolutely blown away to win the Christmas window competition.

“This town nails this so we are truly honoured and proud as punch after spending hours getting all those decals up.”

Knutsford Guardian: From left, Xen Talepros and Ian Cass, managing director Forum of Private Business, outside the best charity shop windowFrom left, Xen Talepros and Ian Cass, managing director Forum of Private Business, outside the best charity shop window (Image: Knutsford Town Council)

The couple were presented with a trophy and certificate.

Geralds of Knutsford took second place for their iconic Christmas entrance while Neki Café came third with their winter wonderland inspired window.

Knutsford Guardian: From left, Ian Cass, managing director Forum of Private Business, with Edward Speakman, of Morgan EdwardsFrom left, Ian Cass, managing director Forum of Private Business, with Edward Speakman, of Morgan Edwards (Image: Knutsford Town Council)

The best small window award went to Morgan Edwards for the innovative use of their space.

Childrens’ Adventure Farm Trust Charity Shop won best charity shop window for the second year running, for their window hand drawn and decorated by volunteer, Xen Talepros.

Knutsford Guardian: From left, Ian Cass, managing director Forum of Private Business with Daniel Nechita of Neki CafeFrom left, Ian Cass, managing director Forum of Private Business with Daniel Nechita of Neki Cafe (Image: Knutsford Town Council)

Knutsford mayor Cllr Peter Coan said: “The Christmas windows in the town centre this year were as impressive as ever.

“You can see how much effort goes into the displays with many business owners spending hours on them themselves.

“The shops should all be very proud of the displays and how they collectively create a very festive shopping space.

“It was a tough decision to pick the winners, so all awards were based on how much effort was put in as well as overall design and effect.

“A big congratulations to each winner and well done to all on their festive windows.”