Businesses in the Forres area are being encouraged to get festive with a Christmas decoration competition.
The contest is being run by the Forres Area Business Association c.i.c. (FABA) which was set up in 2021 to encourage businesses in the Forres area to work together.
FABA is putting up a £100 cash prize for the best festive decoration and two £25 prizes for runners up.
Claire Doughty, a director of FABA, who is co-ordinating the competition said:
“We just wanted to have a bit of fun and encourage businesses to get really festive this year whether through a window display or other form of Christmas decoration.
“In the town centre, on December 3, there will be the Christmas lights switch on, crafters in the Tolbooth and a Winter Wonderland event in the Town Hall.
“We thought it would be great if the businesses could look the part for this too.
“The town always looks great, but the FABA team just wanted to add a bit of an extra incentive this time.”
Claire added:
“FABA is set up for the businesses across the whole Forres area, so we are not limiting the competition to the town centre.
“There are so many businesses across our area and we encourage them to take part too.
“If you work from home, or have an office or premises in the Forres area, then get decorating and submit a picture to us by email to claire@forresareabiz.co.uk by Monday, November 28 for judging.
“Maybe you work from a van, so get it decked out with twinkly lights and let us know.
“We will do our best to include as many businesses as possible, so if you want to take part and are out with the town centre, just send us a picture of your efforts.”
Last month, FABA held its first annual general meeting.
Attendees were given an overview of the organisation’s activities and an insight into the accounts.
Gavin Ellis, Joanna Taylor, Carrie Custodio, Graham Murdoch and Claire Doughty were re-elected as directors.
Joanna Taylor, a FABA director said:
“The AGM provided a really useful platform to discuss FABA’s future plans and the attendees were in agreement that the best events are those that blend informative and social elements.
“There is interest in a re-run of our successful sustainability event and we are also looking to host one on connectivity, as that is relevant for all businesses.
“Both of these events will take place in the new year.”
Joanna added:
“Membership was also discussed.
“Membership is £40 a year and the money is to cover running costs such as insurance and accountancy fees, as well as hiring venues and, if required, paying for speakers for events.
“The Directors are all volunteers who give their time in support of the businesses of the area.
“Having more members would enable us to do more.”
You can find out more about the Forres Area Business Association and join at www.forresareabiz.co.uk