THE annual meeting of the Windermere and Bowness Chamber of Trade heard a comprehensive report on the year from retiring chairman Simon Everette.

He said it has been a difficult time for local firms but now there were signs that trade may be picking up.

However, it had been a good year for Windermere in Bloom again, with silver gilt awards in three categories ansd a Discretionary Award nomination for the RHS Britain in Bloom Tourism Award.

He said Windermere Town twinning had not been able to get the Christmas market off the ground this year, which was a shame. The market should be on every businesses wish list as a brilliant way forward at a quiet time of year.

Barry Butler took over as Chairman and Adrian Faulkner was voted in as secretary and treasurer with a huge vote of thanks for his hard work in the last 12 months. The chamber has a vacancy for Vice Chair. Please contact the Secretary on 015394 48527 if interested.

The chamber’s Best Dressed Christmas Window Competition is still open to email votes. This competiton is open to all businesses within the area, with judging up to tomorrow (Friday). The results will be announced early in the New Year. Only one vote for Windermere and one vote for Bowness per business – send emails to adrian@wbcoft. org.uk.