IT’S the latest form of window dressing.

Striking images of Huddersfield’s famous places and faces are helping brighten up empty shops in the town.

The first of new window galleries have been launched and feature images including the view from Beaumont Park and the statue of Harold Wilson sporting a Town scarf.

The displays were unveiled in empty shops at John William Street and Northumberland Street as part of The Spirit of Huddersfield project.

Photography students from Kirklees College have helped transform the town into an art gallery.

The idea was to showcase the place in the hope that more new businesses will be tempted to move in.

The project is being run with The Sharp Agency, Kirklees Council and the Huddersfield Town Centre Partnership.

The students were tasked with filling the unused spaces with artwork for the whole community to enjoy.

They were asked to take photographs capturing images unique to the town.

More than 80 entries were received, including shots of Castle Hill, the Galpharm Stadium and the town’s train station.

First prize was awarded to Anne-Marie Snashall for her view from Beaumont Park.

Second prize went to Simon Marshall’s photograph of Huddersfield railway station, while Adam Petrovic’s shot of the Harold Wilson statue in St George’s Square draped in a Town scarf bagged third place.

Jane Roper, Kirklees College communications director, said: “I’m delighted that so many people will now have the opportunity to admire their work in the shop fronts.

“This exciting project, which is ultimately designed to attract more investment to Huddersfield, demonstrates what can be achieved when students combine energy with businesses and work together to contribute to the future success of their towns.

“I hope that many more businesses are inspired by The Sharp Agency’s approach and I look forward to more student-business projects in the future.”

A special launch event was held at The Media Centre to mark the unveiling of the first of the window art installations.

Talks are now under way with landlords of other empty properties to try and get them involved in the scheme.

Cathy Burger, Huddersfield Town Centre Partnership manager, said: “This has been partnership working at its best.

“We pride ourselves in Huddersfield in having a strong business partnership where local businesses are represented and contribute to the vibrancy and vitality of the town.

“One of the main aims of this project is to show local businesses the creative talent of our local students in the hope that some work experience for the students may materialise.

“This would be the cherry on top of what has been amazing project.”