AN antelope helped a Galashiels shop owner win the Cleland trophy for the best dressed Christmas window for the third time since 1995.

Santa presented the trophy in a short ceremony to Edelweiss proprietor Andrew Cannon.

A total of 35 businesses entered the competition which helped brighten up the town in time for Christmas.

It was was run by Galashiels Rotary Club this year for the first time since 2001.

There were five runners-up: Victim Support; Trophy Guy; Tile Style; Age Scotland and Bella Amie who were each presented with a framed certificate.

Mr Cannon said: “I am delighted that the Rotary Club have restarted this competition as people always love a Christmas window.

“I won the first trophy presented in 1995 and again in 1999, we use the animatronic deer every three years but always aim to have something moving in the window, it gets children’s attention and they want stop and look.” The competition was instituted by the Chamber of Trade with the trophy being provided by Clelands Volvo of Melrose Road.

John Gray of Galashiels Rotary Club said: “Rotary members surveyed nearly 40 shops which were all of a very high standard.

“Since we restarted the competition we have had enormous interest through social media and it has created a buzz for the town.” Age Scotland manager Lorna Bushell said: “I am happy for Andrew, he puts in so much effort to his window displays, however we are already planning for next year. Ours is mainly thanks to the hard work of my deputy Silvia Bickers who handmade many of the decorations.”