SHOPKEEPERS in Hereford have been recognised by the Mayor for their window dressing efforts over Christmas.

More than 20 businesses took part in the Hereford BID Christmas shop window competition, which saw their festive creations put to a public vote to produce a list of the six best dressed Christmas windows, which were then scored by a panel of judges.

"Scoring was incredibly tight, and entrants amazing in their effort and capturing the public’s imagination," Hereford BID said.

"After much deliberation, the winner of the best independent Christmas window was Sarah Jane's Joy of Flowers, in King Street. Luna Gifts, in Commercial Street and the Spread Eagle in King Street were named runners-up."

Old Market's Pandora store took the top spot in the national chain category, with Broad Street's RSPCA branch and The Entertainer on Broad street both recognised as runners-up.

The national retail winners were invited to the Mayor’s office on January 8 for a small presentation, with the Mayor visiting the Independent Retail winners on January 14 to personally present their awards.

Mike Truelove, operations and marketing manager for Hereford BID, said: “We are delighted that the shop competition has raised the profile of so many businesses and celebrates Hereford based businesses who have shown great pride in their shop. To that end HBID sincerely thanks everyone for taking part and waving the flag for our great City.”