A shop window adorned with Christmas lights and snowflakes won this year’s Festive Window of the Year 2013 competition in St Albans.

This is the second time shops city have been judged on their festive windows and Raft, a furniture store in Chequer Street won the vote of our mystery shoppers this afternoon.

The competition has been organised by the Review, St Albans District Council, St Albans Civic Society and St Albans Chamber of Commerce and will run alongside Festive pub of the Year as a way of encouraging visitors into the city.

On hearing the good news store manager Lewis Tabone said it was “great news”.

Mr Tabone, acting manager since the store opened in April this year, said:”We have had a lot of compliments about our window, so for us to be recognised is very good.

“It is the first thing people see when they go up the hill.

Co- founder Mick Quinn added: "Opening in St Albans has been a fantastic decision. We have been made to feel so welcome by St Albans residents who love our pared back look and feel.

“Winning this award is just fantastic and proves that there is room for creative independent shops on Britain's high street.

“We continue to appeal to local shoppers to support their local shops, as it ensures jobs and prosperity for all. We wanted to create a special St Albans window this Christmas to thank everyone for their support so far."

Raft beat off competition from other shops in the city. Cupcakery in Market Place was named second prize for its “Christmassy theme and products”.

Councillor Roma Mills, chairman of The Retailer of the Year committee said: “Raft has a really pretty festive window.

“It makes the entrance in to St Albans every attractive.”

Before adding: “We are a bit disappointed at the effort by some of the shops and their festive windows.

“We want to see more shops celebrating Christmas and we hope next year, after hearing about this competition, that they will be encouraged to make the town look festive at this time of the year.”