Congleton Town Centre Shines Bright with Christmas Window Competition

Congleton Town Centre has come alive with festive cheer, thanks to the Christmas Window Competition organised by the town council. Local businesses transformed their shop windows into magical displays in competing for the prestigious title of ‘Best Christmas Window Display.’

Rachel McCarthy, Congleton Town Council’s Town Centre and Events Officer, expressed her delight at this year’s competition: “We’ve had a fantastic response, the standard of entries continues to rise each year, with businesses dedicating significant time and effort to crafting these beautiful displays. This competition not only spreads Christmas cheer but also fosters community engagement and support for our local independent traders during this special time of year.”

A panel of representatives faced the delightful yet challenging task of judging the entries. Windows were evaluated based on their impact, creativity, effort, and seasonal appropriateness.

After careful deliberation and meticulous scoring, the winners were announced:

• First Place: Bare Health (High Street)
• Second Place: Barley Hops (High Street)
• Third Place: Oxfam (High Street)

The winners received certificates and a share of the cash prize in recognition of their outstanding efforts.

Mel Ratcliffe, owner of Bare Health, shared her excitement:

“We are overjoyed to receive this award and have our efforts recognised. With careful planning and a touch of magic, we transformed our window into a festive scene featuring cascading snowflakes, twinkling lights, and delicate decorations. Participating in the town council’s competition is always a joy, and it’s wonderful to share the magic of the season with the community.”

The judges praised second-placed Barley Hops for their beautifully hand-decorated Candy Cane Lane scene, showcasing exceptional creativity and festive charm.

Tara Green, Manager from third-placed Oxfam said:

“We’re thrilled to be part of this festive celebration! Our upcycled and sustainable window display reflects our commitment to environmental responsibility, while still spreading Christmas cheer. The centrepiece, a striking Christmas tree, was crafted by a volunteer from an unwanted bed frame! Christmas is a busy time of year for us with many people having a seasonal sort-out. We’re always looking for new volunteers, if you can lend a hand, please drop by the shop—we'd love to hear from you!"

Congleton Town Mayor, Cllr Kay Wesley, applauded all the participants, saying: “Congratulations to all the businesses who contributed to the festive atmosphere throughout the town centre and High Town. Christmas is the busiest time of year for retail, so for these businesses to dedicate time from their hectic schedules demonstrates incredible commitment and community spirit. I encourage residents and visitors to come into town, admire these wonderful displays, and support our local shops by enjoying all that Congleton has to offer this Christmas.”

In addition to the winners, all entries received Highly Commended and Commended certificates to display in their windows.

To help shoppers enjoy Congleton’s festive atmosphere and support local businesses, Congleton Town Council has stepped in to fund free parking on Saturdays in December. The last free parking Saturday is 21 December. From 10am onwards, visitors can park for free in Princess Street car park (market), Back Street car park (behind Lawton Street), and Fairground car park (a 3-hour limit applies).

Pictured - 1st place: Mel Ratcliffe, owner of Bare Health.