Hundreds queue to see Bishop Auckland shop rivalling Newcastle Fenwick

Laura Knight and her mother Carol Knight, the owners of Bishop Auckland's Tinkers Treasures, decorate their storefront ahead of Christmas, and think that this year's display is better than department store Fenwick. 

Around 100 people queued on their red carpet to watch the unveiling of their Christmas window on Friday evening - with guests enjoying plenty of treats, alcoholic tipples, and a discount on Christmas decor.

Laura said: "People really love our display - last year, we turned it into a bit of an event, and now we do it annually. We serve mulled wine, offer 15 per cent off in the shop, and had a busker singing too!"

Customers have been wowed by Laura and Carol's 'gorgeous' window display. Picture: Laura Knight (Image: Laura Knight)

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Regarding the display that Fenwick revealed on November 6, Laura said that a lot of her customers had found it disappointing: "It is just really flat, it is not multidimensional at all. Everyone comments on ours though - we have had so many people say they much prefer it." 

"We always go out of our way to do the best window displays, and how amazing is it that a small independent is giving Fenwick a run for its money!"

It is an effective advert for the business too - nearing four years old, Tinkers Treasures has weathered the pandemic and following economic crisis, meaning that business has been tough. 

Around 100 people queued to see the window display revealed last Friday. Picture: Laura Knight (Image: Laura Knight)

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However, with their popular festive displays, they see an increase in trade - and following the Christmas window's successful launch, the business took to Facebook to thank their customers. 

They wrote: "Thank you from the bottom of our hearts - I am quite emotional today knowing that in these hard times we are being supported by you all! Apparently, our queue was as long as Fenwick's!"

For plenty in the town, it was a zenith of the festive calendar  - with customers congratulating Laura and Carol on the effort poured into their display. One said: "it was a lovely night, well-done ladies". 

Another quipped: "I could use your team to do my lounge, this is stunning."

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