Ramsey is rightly very proud of its strong independent retail heritage and unique sense of community spirit and over the years has grown as new and different shops open and thrive.

If you haven’t been to visit recently, now might be the time to go and explore and experience the bustling town as the Big Christmas Giveaway is launched.

This year sees the launch of the Big Christmas Giveaway of more than £5,000-worth of vouchers donated by local businesses, with draws on Saturday December 2, 9, and 16 and Tuesday December 5.

Donated by local businesses, entrants simply pick up an entry form from the Town Hall, look in shop/business windows to find two lucky symbols, complete the form and post it at the Town Hall by 4.30pm on the day of the draw.

Each draw will be broadcast live on facebook.com/whatsonramsey.

There is something for all the family in Ramsey.

Children will love exploring the Christmas grotto at Ramsey Garden Centre whilst the adults can select their tree, browse Christmas decorations, lights and gifts, and take advice from the friendly staff with regards to plants, gardening and planning for the spring.

Do walk round to Bourne Place to visit Rachel Price Photography for a unique range of Manx gifts.

Born and brought up locally, Rachel’s passion and appreciation of our beautiful island is evident as she uses her talent to capture stunning scenes which can then be purchased in the form of gifts from jigsaw puzzles to coasters, tote bags to clocks and much more.

She has a wide selection of picturesque greeting cards and notelets, or you may wish to speak to her about booking a portrait for your family, children or even pets.

If you are looking to learn more about the island’s culture, then browse through the carefully-selected books at Bridge Bookshop. Established in 1972 and celebrating its 45th anniversary this year in Port Erin and first birthday in Ramsey on December 1, the shop is operated by Harry Pickard and his wife Angela, who have compiled a free guide to give advice on the best books to buy for Christmas.

So whether it’s history, recipes, the TT, guide to walks, hidden gems, children’s books or even art supplies and sheet music, you won’t be disappointed.

For Christmas pampering, select one of many high quality organic natural skincare ranges from Indulgence on Parliament Street.

With treats for the skin, bath and shower, combined with peace of mind of knowing that products available have not been tested on animals, this boutique shop will satisfy every whim for ladies, gentlemen and children, from tropical bath bombs, to hand-made shaving sets and even gin and tonic bath salts!

Shalee stocks a vibrant and diverse collection of carefully chosen items to inspire and bring enjoyment to the shopping experience.

They specialise in beautiful Manx gifts, crafts and artisan products. With striking glassware, dazzling crystals and indoor lighting, locally hand-crafted items, unusual souvenirs, and products to tempt your taste buds in the form of Belgian chocolate pizzas, there’s something for everyone at Shalee.

Also on Parliament Street is Pure Inspiration, the Ramsey treasure trove, selling home accessories, cushions, candles, christmas decorations, unusual jewellery, wraps, scarves and gifts for all occasions and interests.

You’re guaranteed a lovely shopping experience at Pure Inspiration all year round, but particularly so in their beautifully decorative shop at this festive time of year.

Patricia Wild Optometrists on Auckland Terrace are well known locally for their outstanding service and quality of sight testing.

Eye examinations are not limited to a set time duration as their emphasis is on detection and accurate reporting of conditions inside the eye and onset of conditions such as diabetes and age related macular degeneration. They are rightly proud that quality takes priority over throughput.

With a four-star trip advisor rating, a visit to Ramsey is not complete without traditional fish and chips from The Ramsey Trawlerman.

Traditionally-run, with a reputation for healthy portions and good value, you’re able to dine inside to escape from the winter weather or take away freshly prepared fish and chips. There’s a wide selection of chippy favourites and special offers making it one of the most popular places to eat in Ramsey.

This year Christmas Jumper Day is Friday, December 15, and there is nowhere better to go than to Top 2 Toe, who stock the widest selection of Christmas jumpers, T-shirts and hoodies in the north and in the west!

A family business established in 1989 it supplies clothing and footwear for all the family, including school uniform, health and safety work-wear with top brands such as ’Dickies’ and ’Tuff Stuff’, they even screen print and embroider on bulk orders.

Don’t forget Top 2 Toe is your point of call for your TT merchandise too! Not only can they fit you out from Top 2 Toe they can even provide you with a great selection of easy to wheel lightweight luggage for your next holiday.