A competition to reward the best Christmas house and gardens display has chosen a winner.

Jackie Monk of Sheds Lane, Saffron Walden, wowed the judges at Saffron Walden Initiative. It is the first year the contest has run.

Saffron Walden Initiative chair Jacqui Portway, town mayor Richard Porch, and town clerk Lisa Courtney revealed the news to the delighted household when they opened their door.

Councillor Porch said: "It really is quite something, absolutely unbelievable."

The winner has received a Scotsdales Garden Centre voucher. Paul Bellany of Creative Walden has made a video of the event which includes a performance by Rock Choir.

VIDEO

The standard of entries was so high that a Highly Commended certificate has been awarded to Niki Allen of Wards Croft.

Saffron Walden Reporter: Niki Allen of Wards Croft, Saffron Walden was awarded Highly Commended in the Saffron Walden Initiative competitionNiki Allen of Wards Croft, Saffron Walden was awarded Highly Commended in the Saffron Walden Initiative competition (Image: Dominic Davey)

Jacqui Portway, who organised the event with Cindy Whife, said: "Both entries are in memory of a loved one and have given such delight to the community."

Saffron Walden Reporter: Saffron Walden mayor Richard Porch with Saffron Walden Initiative's Christmas competition winner Jackie Monk and her familySaffron Walden mayor Richard Porch with Saffron Walden Initiative's Christmas competition winner Jackie Monk and her family (Image: Dominic Davey)