A town council competition is giving creative businesses the chance to win £100 for their chosen charity.

Loughton Town Council has launched its 'Christmas Window Competition' which will automatically enter any shop in Loughton that dresses its window up for the festive season.

Entries will be divided into one of the local, chain or charity shop categories.

The winner of each group will be awarded £100 to the charity of their choice, as well as an engraved cup and a framed certificate.

The Christmas-themed window displays will be judged on a range of criteria, including overall impression, visual impact, creativity, artistic merit, inventive use of materials and effort.

Judging by the town mayor and chair and vice chair of the environment and heritage committee will commence on December 1.