The Snowman author encourages West Sussex youngsters to get creative this Christmas
An Arundel-based children's hospice has launched winter drawing and writing competitions.
Young people across West Sussex are being encouraged to get creative this Christmas by the author of a festive favourite.
Arundel-based children's hospice Chestnut Tree House has launched its festive competitions for budding writers or illustrators to take part in.
Youngsters aged between four and 16 are being asked to create their own snowman picture or to write a short story inspired by Raymond Briggs’ original picture book, The Snowman.
Raymond Briggs is a patron of the West Sussex hospice.
His classic 1978 picture book, The Snowman has themes and emotions that are said to "particularly resonate" with children’s hospices and the families they care for.
Friendship, having adventures and creating precious memories are central to the story, and Chestnut Tree House is hoping children will be inspired by the story and the themes will spark their creativity.
Children can get arty by drawing or painting their own snowman-themed picture.
The only requirement is that at least one snowman features in the design.
Alternatively, they can get writing about a special memory, or an adventure or moment they have shared with someone.
The story must be written in under 250 words.
The deadline for entries is New Year's Eve (31 December).
Entries will be judged in three age categories: Four to seven years, eight to 11 years and 12 to 16 years.
There will be one winner in each age category for both the drawing and writing competitions, with gift card prizes.
Entries can be submitted online or by post.
Raymond Briggs CBE, patron of Chestnut Tree House, said:
"For the last three years, I have had the pleasure of judging the snowman-themed children’s drawing competition for Chestnut Tree House.
"It’s always a difficult job to choose a winner from so many different ideas and artistic styles, but I look forward to seeing what children create.
"Chestnut Tree House is a charity close to my heart, and I would like to thank everyone for their support.
"Your help means that Chestnut Tree House can continue caring for children and families in our local community."
To find out more about the drawing and writing competitions, and other ways to get involved with Chestnut Tree House this winter, visit the hospice's website.