The National Folklore Commission has announced the winners of the 2006 Christmas decorations competition. The first prize in the mechanical crib and live crib categories was not awarded, even though they were contested by sole competitors. Thus, Johan Briffa of Saint Peter’s Philarmonic, Birzebbuga ,and John Mary Deguara of Burmarrad, managed a second prize, even if they did not face competition.

The prize for the large static crib made of rustic stone and gagazza stone was won by Joseph Theuma of Luqa, and John Aquilina of Naxxar came in second place.

Adrian Busuttil of Sliema won the prize for the large static crib made of polystyrene, papier maché and sacks. Emanuel Axiaq of Tarxien and Raymond Deguara of the Nicolò Isouard Philarmonic Society, Mosta, came second and third respectively.

Mosta made a clean sweep of the small static crib section, with Raymond Deguara of the Nicolò Isouard Philarmonic Society coming first and Govan Muscat and Frankie Pavia of Ir-Razzett tal-Markiz Mallia Tabone winning second and third prize respectively.

As regards the decoration of commercial streets, Paola scored an en pleine, as Palm Street, the upper side and the lower side of Antoine De Paule Square came first, second and third respectively.

The decoration of non commercial streets prize was won by Antonio Bosio Street, Msida, with Birzebbuga Street, Birzebbuga and Main Street, Zurrieq, coming second and third respectively.

The clubs, councils, organisations and civic centres façade category was won by the Antoine de Paule Philharmonic Society Christ the King Band Club of Paola, while Peace Band Club of Naxxar came second.