ACTRESS Emma Samms MBE was the special guest of honour as the winner of Nailsworth’s annual Christmas window display was announced on Friday.
This year’s coveted prize was claimed by Armed and Gorgeous on Fountain Street, who won the trophy for the second year running.
Staff at the popular jewellery and gift shop created an elegant display with a gold and silver design, fake snow, fairy lights, presents and a wreath.
Armed and Gorgeous was chosen as the winner after a tour of all the windows by the Mrs Samms, star of the 80s TV series Dynasty and The Colbys.
She toured the town with town clerk Katherine Kearns, who was standing in for an ailing mayor Johnathan Duckworth.
The judges looked at windows across the town centre, judging each unique display on artistic merit and the seasonal winter theme.
Sorrell Allen, staff member at Armed and Gorgeous who designed the windows, said: “I’m so delighted. This year’s theme was ‘Elegant’ and I had great fun choosing the products for it.”
The second prize went to James Lear of Arundel in Fountain Street, and the judges’ special prize went to the Domestic Science pop-up shop with its vignetted window with falling snow.
Special guest judge Emma Samms said: “It’s been such fun having to look at the windows in this different way, as a judge rather than as a shopper.
“I’ve managed to see some things I liked and I’ll be back to shop. Nailsworth is one of my favourite towns, and we are so lucky to live in such beautiful part of the country.”
Town Mayor Jonathan Duckworth said “I was really sorry to miss the judging as there are so many fantastic window displays this year.
“Nailsworth has a great combination of shops, many of which are independent and all of them combine to provide a great Christmas Shopping experience. Well done to every one of them.”
The competition is sponsored by the Chamber of Trade and the winners receive a cheque and a trophy.
Emma Samms is the co-founder of Starlight Children’s Foundation. She was recognised for services to seriously and terminally ill children and was made a Member of the Order of the British.
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