Local Landmarks celebrated with Children’s Art Exhibition

A new children’s art exhibition in Newcastle town centre celebrates local landmarks that make Newcastle-under-Lyme unique.

Outstanding depictions of a Queen Elizabeth II statue, Queens Gardens, subway murals and a frog sculpture at Keele roundabout are among 55 winning entries in a Britain in Bloom painting competition – organised by Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council – thatare now on display at Keele in Town until 16 June.

The theme of this year’s contest, Local Bloomin’ Landmarks, encouraged youngsters to think about key places, or features, in the borough that provide a sense of civic pride.

The council’s Green Team had the difficult task of choosing two overall winners from 1,046 entries from 12 primary, secondary and special schools across the borough.

Olive Anderson, aged six, from Ravensmead Primary School, is the overall winner of the under 10s category for her moody version of the Apedale mining wheel while 11-year-old Darcey Pye, from the Sun Academy, was victorious in the over 10s section for a colourful representation of the historic Guildhall.

Cllr. Craig Skelding, Cabinet member for leisure, culture and heritage, said: “Even though the borough’s Heart of England in Bloom campaign is now co-ordinated by Newcastle-under-Lyme Business Improvement District – after many years of success under the stewardship of the borough council – the council still leads on some core “bloom” activities.

“Our annual painting competition is always a popular event and this year is no exception.Looking at all the amazing entries, it’s clear that Newcastle-under-Lyme is home to many talented young people – and fantastic landmarks. Everyone should feel very proud of their excellent efforts. I hope the winners enjoy seeing their work feature in an exhibition.”

Keele in Town is open from 12pm to 4pm on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays and 10am to 4pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Admission is free.

The Borough Mayor presents certificates and prizes to the winners at Keele University on Wednesday, 18 June. Ravensmead Primary School, in Bignall End, will be rewarded for submitting nine winning competition entries.

The painting competition is sponsored by The Art Studio Gallery in Newcastle.