Cockermouth traders know how to make their town sparkle - and they have done just that this Christmas.

Town centre shops and businesses have created fabulous festive windows, showcasing lots of their goods.

Times and Star: Mayor Julie Laidlow with the winning RTSN Huddart teamMayor Julie Laidlow with the winning RTSN Huddart team (Image: Supplied)

Mayor Julie Laidlow and Chamber of Trade co-chair Joe Murray recently took to the streets to choose their favourite Grand Window displays.

"So many of them were absolutely beautiful it was so difficult to judge," said Cllr Laidlow.

"The shop keepers are so good at keeping everyone's spirits up.

"The lights are beautiful, everyone is commenting on how lovely the town looks."

RTSN Huddart Supplies on Main Street was chosen as the town council winner. "It's so bright and really stands out," said Cllr Laidlow.

County Fruit Stores and Cockermouth Kitchen Company Limited were given Highly Commended.

"I was struggling to decide so took advice from my grandson,who loves the reindeer in the fruit store," said Cllr Laidlow.

Times and Star: Joe Murray and Maggi Toner-Edgar, of Recreate and MakeJoe Murray and Maggi Toner-Edgar, of Recreate and Make (Image: Supplied)

Joe Murray, who manages The Children's Society Shop, on Main Street, chose Wishes as the chamber's winner.

"There was a great standard with some real stand-out festive displays," he said.

"The traders have done what they always do, come together and created a great atmosphere.

"We try and choose a window that's Christmassy but also has a great selection of goods."

Times and Star: Joe Murray and Jan Mansergh, right, of Jacy'sJoe Murray and Jan Mansergh, right, of Jacy's (Image: Supplied)

He gave Highly Commended to Jacy's Lingerie, on Market Place, and Recreate & Make, on Main Street.

Youngsters are being invited to take part in the Family Window Spotting Competition. Entries can be picked up at the library. Families who enter will be given a chocolate gift, completed entries will go into a prize draw.

"Our town is looking amazing and it's all down to the hard work of our independent business owners," said Joe.

Times and Star: Age UK's Glitter Girls craft group created a lovely winter wonderlandAge UK's Glitter Girls craft group created a lovely winter wonderland (Image: Supplied)

"We're hoping lot of people will come into town and have a look at everything that's on offer and help support businesses.

"This is the time of year which can help keep businesses afloat."

The town council has organised carols with the Cockermouth Mechanics Band on Main Street at 7.30pm on Christmas Eve, near Cocker Bridge. Everyone is welcome.