Retailers are being invited to embrace the joys of their home county as Ilkley Carnival launches its “Yorkshire Tour” themed Shop Window Display Competition.

Jenny Rhodes, co-owner from 2013 winner Poppy Red, is calling for even more stores to support the carnival by dressing their windows in the carnival theme and having the chance to win a month of free public relations from competition sponsors Approach PR.

“The carnival is growing every year and we all have our part to play in its success,” said Jenny who runs the children’s shoe shop on South Hawksworth Street with her mum Helen. “We were delighted to win last year’s shop window display competition. The PR prize saw us develop our social media profile, hold creative charity events and get our name out to over 200,000 people through the local press.”

Suzanne Johns, shop window display sponsor and managing director of Approach PR, said: “The Shop Window Display competition is a very important part of Ilkley Carnival’s build-up because it creates a sense of anticipation and offers a great opportunity for Ilkley traders to showcase their skills and points of difference while supporting one of the town’s biggest annual events.

“We’re hoping that the PR success stories of previous winners Poppy Red and Nora’s Interiors and Gifts in 2012 will inspire even more retailers to get involved this year and we’re looking forward to having the opportunity to apply our own award-winning expertise to the successful business.”

Judged by the Ilkley Carnival committee members on Friday, May 2, and Saturday, May 3, stores are asked to create the most imaginative display that reflects the “Tour de Yorkshire” carnival theme.

The winning store will be invited onto the carnival’s main stage on May 5 to collect their trophy and the announcement will be made in the Ilkley Gazette on May 8. To enter your business into the Shop Window Display competition contact Colin Watson on 07885 200640.