VICKY'S Takeaway in St John Street has won Coleford's best-dressed shop window in a hard-fought competition with the theme 'A Dickens Christmas'.

The theme was set by the Chamber of Trade and judging was carried out by the arts committee members of the Coleford Switched On Music Festival – John Belcher, Amanda Smith and Vicky Thornton.

Many traders followed the theme but more awards were introduced to recognise the work and artistic thought put in by those who had mounted other displays, and for displays with and without shop merchandise. There were also 'Highly Commended' certificates for runners up in each category.

Coleford Crafts, also in St John Street, won the award for the best dressed window not using shop goods, and Forget me Not, Pyart Court, had the best window with shop goods.

"The committee were very impressed with the overall quality of all the displays," said a spokesman.

"Many had comical themes and jokes and one included a puzzle. Even local schools took part and their displays can be seen in Muffins, St John Street, Nationwide in Gloucester Road and Rose Day Nursery, High Street.

"Go and have a look and see how difficult it was to choose," the spokesman urged.