THERE will be no Christmas window display in Colchester this year, but the festive spirit will be more prominent than ever.

This is the view of the Colchester Presents team, which is in charge of the official launch of Christmas in Colchester town centre this year.

There was a backlash from residents who were disappointed with Fenwick’s Christmas window last year but the store’s managing director Carl Milton, who chairs Colchester Presents, said lessons have been learnt.

The change in tradition is due to the layout of the Fenwick building which underwent £30 million of refurbishment.

He said: “Last year we tried to replicate what the store had done historically, rather than take things forward.

“On reflection, there was a need to move things on and that’s why we have developed the Christmas Showcase this year.”

There will be a virtual display which will be projected on the front of the store, telling the story of a Christmas dove flying through Colchester. As part of the festivities schools were also asked to make unique carousel horses which will feature in the Christmas parade.

Gazette:

Mr Milton said: “I’m hoping this is the start of a bigger and better Christmas. Everyone has shared our vision and that has made things easier.”