Youngsters are being invited to show off their artistic talent – and win a cash prize – as part of Niton and Whitwell village’s Isle of Wight Day celebrations next month.
Niton and Whitwell Parish Council is running the contest, with Island children’s author and illustrator Marianne SuYin lined up to judge the entries.
Organiser and parish councillor Janice Young said:
“Last year we won the best-dressed village cup on Isle of Wight Day. This year we wanted to offer something to stimulate local youngsters over the summer holidays.
“Niton Primary School and pre-school are both enthusiastic, and we’re also very grateful to Marianne for offering her expertise.”
Any form of artwork reflecting Island life can be submitted, and 2 age groups – under 7s and 7-11 – will be judged, with prizes of £25 and £10 in each group.
Marianne, who will be reading in the Youth Zone at the Isle of Wight Literary Festival in October, is now working on her second book ‘On the Trail of the Queen’s Jewels’. Due out in the autumn, she describes it as “a very Victorian adventure” set at Osborne House.
Her first work, ‘On the Trail of the Missing Pets’, was set in wartime London and written in collaboration with Shalfleet CE Primary School.
The closing date for the Niton and Whitwell art competition is 9th September and any child who either lives in, or has a strong connection with the parish, can enter. Prizes will be presented on Isle of Wight Day on 23rd September.
Full entry details can be found on the parish website at www.nitonwhitwell.org.uk/news.
