MIRRORED cubes, twinkling white lights and sparkling silver leaves certainly won the judges over when they were picking the winner of the Best Dressed Christmas Shop in St Albans.

Organised and sponsored by St Albans Chamber of Commerce, the contest was won by The Dressing Room, in High Street, St Albans.

The competition was judged by president of St Albans Chamber of Commerce Sandra Oldfield, St Albans Mayor Kate Morris and St Albans district councillor Melvyn Teare, portfolio holder for culture and heritage.

The trio praised the women's clothes shop for its distinctive yet restrained window display in a palette of black, white and silver. An engraved cup was presented to the shop's manager Deryane Tadd.

Sandra Oldfield said: "The chamber of commerce is keen to support and promote St Albans as a retail destination and is pleased to be sponsoring this competition.

"It is also delighted that an independent retailer has won the award in the competition's inaugural year, underlining the distinctiveness of St Albans' retail offering.

"I hope even more shops will take part next year in a concerted effort to create a festive environment for city centre visitors."

The judges also gave a special mention to Apt Creations, in Catherine Street, for its innovative window display at Ashwood Art Supplies, in The Village Arcade. The display featured 24 numbered window panes to which an advent object will be added every day through December.

Councillor Morris said: "The chamber's award is an acknowledgement of the best presentation of our excellent shop offer in St Albans.

"I am delighted to have taken part in the judging and to have experienced all the shops when displayed at their best for the Festive Season.

"We are fortunate to have such enthusiastic and creative retailers who help to make our city a wonderful venue for Christmas shoppers."