The best independent retailers that Newark has to offer are already hard at work creating shop windows full of festive spirit, as part of local organisation Totally Locally’s Newark Wonderland campaign.

Retailers have been tasked with going above and beyond this year to create windows that will stop Christmas shoppers in their tracks, encouraging them to spend their money with independent businesses rather than the big chains.

The public will have the deciding vote on which retailer wins the Newark Wonderland trophy via Totally Locally Newark’s social media channels. If shoppers also want to get creative, the Totally Locally Newark team has even created a short ‘how to’ tutorial for a simple decoration on its Facebook page while Newark and Sherwood District Council is also lending its support with an inspirational Pinterest board packed with more ideas.

Jill Brown from Totally Locally Newark, said: “As part of our Newark Wonderland campaign, we’re again working with the independent retailers of Newark to give shoppers even more reason to choose their fantastic business as the place to spend their hard-earned cash. 

“Once they have perfected their winter windows, we’ll be asking them to submit photos for a public vote opening on 1st December 2018. One lucky voter will be chosen at random to win a £200 Totally Locally Newark voucher that can be spent at participating shops in Newark.

“We’d love to see everyone’s favourite windows on social media by using #NewarkWonderland as a way of really celebrating Newark and its special independent scene.”

Julie Reader-Sullivan of Newark and Sherwood District Council, added: “Newark is the ideal destination for Christmas shopping – you can beat the crowds and stress of the big cities, there are plenty of independent retailers to find something unique, and parking makes access easy. The creation of these festive windows just adds another reason to come and enjoy any of the free events that are taking place and enjoy the town’s cosy and Christmassy atmosphere.”

There will be free car parking in Newark every Sunday in December until Christmas day and on Sunday 25th November for the Christmas Lights Switch On. For further information on Totally Locally Newark visit http://www.totally-locally-newark.co.uk/ Discover the wide range of festive events taking place in Newark at https://www.newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk/christmas/newarkchristmasevents/