Businesses and households are being urged to do their bit to brighten up Swanage this Christmas.
Swanage Chamber of Trade is again hosting popular Christmas competitions to acknowledge those who do their bit to bring shoppers and visitors to the town over the festive period.
All businesses in the town, members of the chamber or not, are welcome to take part in a Christmas windows contest.
Judging takes place in the week leading up to Christmas, with winners set to be announced during the holiday period.
“Attracting visitors and residents to the town is very important in the middle of the off season and the windows are an attraction, along with the other events planned by Swanage Town Council,” a chamber spokesperson said.
“Chamber encourages everyone to think about shopping locally to buy their Christmas gifts.”
Running alongside the windows competition is an event to recognise households who have made an effort.
A residential windows/garden decoration competition is being held for those seeking to brighten their street.
“This year, residents are asked to send in a photograph of either their decorations or a neighbour’s, or indeed a whole street they may pass by,” the spokesperson said.
Entries need to be in by December 22 and should include the location of the photograph.
The winners will be announced over the Christmas holiday and some entries will be put on the chamber’s Facebook page.
“Last year there was a record number of entries and quite a few families were seen looking round the streets at the stunning displays,” they added.
Email your entry to contact@swanagechamber.com.uk, or to annie.ryefields@btinternet.com.