THE organiser of the annual Stourbridge Military Vehicle Parade is inviting businesses to take part in a shop window display competition commemorating the Remembrance season.

David Spruce is once again busy organising the parade, now in its third year, which will take place in Stourbridge on Saturday November 9, starting at 11am.

The Shirley Pipe Band will lead the procession which will travel down the High Street, through Stourbridge town centre, along Market Street, and onto the Bonded Warehouse in Canal Street where the vehicles will be displayed for the public to view.

Pre Metro, operators of the Stourbridge Shuttle, are again sponsoring the parade and shop window competition, along with Pegasus Grab Hire.

Cash prizes will be awarded for the “most original and heartfelt tributes to our veterans” – Mr Spruce, who works for Pre Metro, said.

He added: “Following the creativity showcased last year, businesses across Stourbridge will again have the opportunity to showcase their support for our military community by decorating their shop windows in a theme of Remembrance.

“Each business is encouraged to create a display honouring military heritage and community spirit while raising awareness for the Poppy Appeal.

“Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three winners, with all winnings donated to the charity of the business’s choice.”

Pre Metro director Steve Jasper added: “We’re incredibly proud to continue sponsoring this contest, which brings the business community together to support such an important cause. It was amazing to see the creativity and passion businesses poured into their displays last time, and this year promises to be even better.”

Former Stourbridge MP Suzanne Webb, who is one of the judges, added: “I am thrilled to be once again supporting the Military Vehicle Parade and to be asked to be one of the judges for the annual shop front decoration contest.

"Dave Spruce is an absolute legend and huge thanks to Pre-Metro Operations and Pegasus for their sponsorship of the event. It really does put our town on the map and is an event that I continue to be proud of.”

Displays should be completed by Friday November 1, with judging taking place on the morning of Tuesday November 5, with the winners announced the same day.

Businesses interested in participating are encouraged to contact David Spruce by emailing ds@stourbridgemvp.co.uk or via the website stourbridgemvp.co.uk