Richmond has been shortlisted in the 2018 Great British High Street Awards.
The town was entered into the champion high street category by the Original Richmond, Richmond Business and Tourism Association.
There were 240 applicants and Richmond is one of only 26 to have been shortlisted.
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The judges will come to Richmond on October 17 to make a final decision.
Judging is based on four pillars of success – community, customer experience, environment and digital transformation.
70 per cent of the final score is decided by the judges and 30 per cent by voting through social media.
Residents have been urged to show their support for Richmond by posting on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram, using #MYHIGHSTREET and #GBHSRichmond hashtags to register a vote.
This is what the judges said about Richmond so far: “Richmond has a number of inspiring trading initiatives, including Love Being Local, Richmond Town Ticket and the October Loyalty Promotion, to provide interest and incentives for residents and visitors to shop locally.
“Events also help to drive footfall, such as the Walking and Books Festival, GeorgeFest, which celebrates Richmond’s Georgian history, and vintage markets.
“Richmond is improving the high street environment through the introduction of more flower baskets and areas planted with fruit and herbs, to be enjoyed by the public.
“Support for local wildlife is also prioritised, with bee-friendly planting, an insect hotel and the installation of bat boxes.
“Many local businesses are online thanks to the Richmond website and community social media channels.”
Marcia McLuckie, chair of the business association, said she was overjoyed the town had been shortlisted.
“It really shows how the Business and Tourism Association is working together to bring the town together and that this is producing rewards.
“This recognition, coming hard on the heels of our excellent awards for Yorkshire in Bloom really is the icing on the cake.
“Let’s hope we can put the cherry on the top by winning the title for Richmond of Great British High Street.”
