string 'em up (by the bulbs)

results:

Think of Christmas and you think of Santa, reindeer, angels, stars, snowflakes and… sheep? Well you did in Kirkby Stephen this year. The fluffy white ovine creatures crept into window displays in homes around the town as part of the “String 'em up! (by the Bulbs)” competition. Over 30 households in the town had made the extra effort in their festive light displays for the occasion.
The competition was organised to recognise the artistic value of household illuminations, so often regarded as common or tacky. For many people, decorating the outside of their homes is the single most creative activity they do all year. Critics often lambaste outdoor illuminations as cheep and nasty, when in fact they are often put up using the same rules of composition and colour theory that the world's greatest artist use. There's more to making an effective display than simply sticking some lights on the wall. There's a real art to it.
Four awards were given by the three judges: Steve Messam from Fold, photographer John Darwell and local critic John Fisher. Points were awarded for creativity, originality, humour and overall brightness with extra points awarded for including sheep in the display.

The overall winner trophy was awarded to Christine and Dick Heap of Westgarth for the sheer scale and ambition of their display.

pictures...

The Judges Special award trophy was given to Jill Tarn of Melgates Cottage, Melbecks for the 'Flock around the Clock' display using sheep masks made by pupils at Long Marton Primary School, and the innovative use of a fibre optic tree in an old GPO telephone box.

pictures...

Highly commended rosettes were awarded to Mark Keefe of Isandlwana, South Road, and Flo Allison of Westgarth.

pictures...