Huge congratulations to the team at Ethel Loves Me on winning the public vote in the Rye Christmas Windows Competition. The shop on Rye High Street came out top in the poll of stores and businesses, closely followed by Rope Walk Cafe and the Number 50 restaurant.
The competition, ran by Rye News and Rye Chamber of Commerce, finished on Monday 8 December and saw votes being gathered on the paper’s Instagram page @newsrye.
Ethel Loves Me’s stunning window display was a worthy winner, featuring toy soldiers and classy decorations, and brilliantly complements what is on sale in the store – the best from local artists and crafters.
Owner Jo Dorey explained the design. “At Ethel we’re all about colour and it’s been great to see the shop with so much sparkle and Christmas joy. Emma Tompkins made the fantastic nutcracker soldiers – she’s so good with paints and fabrics – and she worked with Sue Landymore, one of our creators, to fill the windows with colour and light.”
She says the shop is expecting a busy run-up to Christmas and thanked everyone who chose Ethel Loves Me in the public vote. “It’s been really lovely to see the people of Rye coming together to vote for something like this. It makes us feel so good and shows how important community spirit is here.”
The Rope Walk Cafe came a close second with a window display that proved popular in the shopping mews. Paper plates recreate a snow covered roof above decorated windows.
Michelle Hayter from the cafe said she was thrilled to get so many votes. “Thank you so much for all your support. We’ve had people asking for us to keep the decorations up after Christmas. I’m not sure how that will work out, but we will definitely do something for Easter.”
She says the Rope Walk Cafe is staying open throughout the festive season. “We’re open quite a lot so come and see us. We’re only closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.”
The other runner up, restaurant Number 50, will also be open throughout the holidays said owner Matt Drinkwater. “Thanks to everyone who voted for us. Book a table and come in, there’s a seat for everyone and always a warm welcome.”
The restaurant on Cinque Ports Street has created a frosted winter window with baubles, bells and Christmas wreaths.
Jane Brook from Rye Chamber praised the three People’s Choice winners. “They’re all examples of the creativity and community that defined this year’s inaugural competition. Congratulations to all!”
Rye News Editor James Stewart was also impressed by the creativity in the shop window displays. “They’re all so different and together with the new Christmas lights they make Rye look brilliantly Christmassy. Ethel Loves Me, Rope Walk Cafe and Number 50 are all superb local businesses that are a big part of life in Rye and well deserve getting all the votes in our award.”
At the end of November a judging panel led by Rye Mayor Andy Stuart also chose their favourites. The Sunflower charity shop was voted best, followed by Paws ‘n’ Claws and Rye Chocolates.
Image Credits: Natasha Robinson , Jane Brook .