Ramsey traders are promising a special Christmas shopping experience on Sunday December 12 when they will be opening from 12noon to 4pm and taking part in the Ramsey Santa Trail, giving one lucky shopper the opportunity to win ?600 worth of vouchers to spend in the town’s independent stores. Organised by Ramsey Chamber of Commerce the Santa Trail is a race against time - from 12noon to 3.45pm - to find the ‘12 Days of Christmas’ cards hidden in participating shops’ windows. To qualify for a place in the prize draw entrants must identify the 12 locations then submit their completed entry forms by 3.45pm on December 12 to Ramsey Town Hall where the draw will take place at 4pm. The prize winner must be there in person to collect their vouchers, or another entry will be drawn. Participating traders have donated vouchers towards the ?600 prize. Any vouchers bringing the total to more than ?600 will go towards providing a second and maybe even a third prize. Kate Jerry of The Bridal House and Kim Kneen of The Snug, two of the business owners taking part, have been co-ordinating the event. Kate said: ‘We’ve had a really encouraging response so far from businesses who have agreed to stay open. These include Alloms Jewellers, The Bridal House, Dolce Vita, Jelly Beans, Looneys, Mother Nature, Moughtin Brothers, New Moon – the Bead Studio, Outdoors Ramsey, Pappagallis, Pure Inspiration, Ramsey Craft Centre, Ramsey Sports and Leisure, Ramsey Warehouse, Rods ‘n’ Reels, St Paul’s Bookshop, Sarah’s Flowers, Shakti Man, The Snug , Splinters, The Tide and Unique Boutique. In addition, 3rd Ramsey Brownies will be in the town hall raising funds by offering a gift-wrapping service and we’re also hoping to have street entertainment.’ Ramsey Town Commissioners have given their full support to the event. Commissioners’ chairman Captain Nigel Malpass said: ‘It’s encouraging to see local businesses joining forces and working together to attract shoppers to the town. It’s vitally important to shop locally - at Christmas and throughout the year. This Santa Trail is an inspired idea that sends out an unequivocal message that Ramsey is very much open for business this Christmas.’ Santa Trail entry forms will be available from participating shops and Ramsey Town Library from December 1, and from Ramsey Town Hall on December 12 from 11.30am. Forms can also be downloaded at www.ramsey.gov.im from December 1. Retailers wishing to participate are asked to contact Kate Jerry at The Bridal House, bridalhouse@manx.net. Telephone 814898. Ends