THE results of an annual competition which further brightens up blossoming shopping areas left Malvern's mayor "amazed".

Malvern Town Council organises the annual shop window display contest for retailers with this year's theme being Christmas wreaths.

Mayor Clive Hooper's job of judging proved to be a challenging one but he was especially taken by Iapetus Gallery's winning effort.

Councillor Hooper said: “I was really impressed with the quality and imaginative nature of the displays in the shops which took part in the competition.

"The window displays in Malvern are normally of an extremely high standard anyway and they add a great deal to the general appearance and vitality of the town.

"Our traders have to be commended for all they do to make the place where we live and work so attractive.

"The thought and work which went into this year's competition entries amazed me.

"I was particularly impressed with what I saw in The Malvern Bookshop (Abbey Road) and in Paws and Claws (Worcester Road) but Iapetus (Bellevue Terrace) really did excel and it was that shop which received my biggest vote and won the competition.”

Cllr Hooper, in looking back on recent civic events, thanked staff, volunteers, actors Mark James and Katie McGlynn from Malvern Theatres' pantomime Cinderella and everyone who braved the cold weather to support the town's successful Christmas lights festival last month.

He said: “I should also like to thank everyone who came to the Christmas charity concert held at St Matthias' Church in aid of St Richard's Hospice and in support of Malvern Hills District Brass Band.

"It was very well attended and we all had a great afternoon with both the brass band and the splendid singing from the excellent Hills Singers."

Cllr Hooper, who had previously served as deputy mayor, added: "After what I hope will be a joyous Christmas and a happy new year for our town, I now look forward to the next fundraising event for my charity – the Sunday lunch at St Richard's on February 4, 2024.”

Details, including booking arrangements for the lunch, can be obtained from the St Richard's Hospice website at www.strichards.org.uk/event/lunch-with-the-mayor-of-malvern/