Fourteen Sidmouth shops in Poppy Appeal window contest

MORE Sidmouth shops took part in this year’s Poppy Window Display competition.

“I counted 14,” said Eileen Hodges, president of Sidmouth branch of the Royal British Legion, who presented the George Hodges Shield to Michael Lee, director of Potbury’s of Sidmouth, whose shop won first prize in the large shop category.

Penny Newland, who runs No 83 for Cards, High Street, received a silver cup for her small shop display from Town Council chairman, Councillor Peter Sullivan.

Mrs Hodges said: “It was difficult to judge this year. Several windows were excellent and it was gratifying to see more entries this year, but we do miss Knights’ displays, having won the shield for some years.”

She said some shops only displayed their poppy theme for a few days.

“However,” she added, “our thanks go to everyone who entered this competition and better luck next year.”

Sue Pink, Sidmouth’s RBL poppy appeal organiser, attended the prize handover at Sidmouth War Memorial on Monday.