THREE businesses that have helped illuminate Royston over the festive period have been named the winners of The Crow Christmas lights competition. More than 40 shops took part in the competition, sponsored by Enfield Electricals, and after careful conside

THREE businesses that have helped illuminate Royston over the festive period have been named the winners of The Crow Christmas lights competition.

More than 40 shops took part in the competition, sponsored by Enfield Electricals, and after careful consideration, the judging panel decided to awarded prizes to Ladds, A-Z flooring, and Jane's Hairdressers.

A spokesman for the judges said: "We initially planned to award a first prize of £100 and a runners-up prize of £50.

But because the standard was so high, we wanted to reward three different businesses, so decided to split the prize fund equally three ways.

"The winners are the firms that made the most creative use of the lights."

Ladds in the High Street, won for what the judges described as "the most daring display of lights at height", with lights suspended five metres above the front of the shop.

A-Z flooring, of Angel Pavement, was recognised for its "unusual use of a Christmas tree bolted to the ceiling", while Jane's on Market Hill was praised for its "professional use of a single string of lights".

The spokesman added: "A number of other businesses received commendations: Beautiful Balloons, Barbara's Flowers, Merlin Mica Hardware, Abbots Travel, and Premier Travel, all put on notable seasonal displays."

The lights used in the competition were supplied by Enfield Electricals, and donated to businesses free of charge by Royston Town Centre Forum and Royston Town Council.