Andrew Griffith, has announced the winning design which will be featured on his official Christmas card and sent to over 1,500 people including Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
More than 300 children from primary schools across the constituency sent in their colourful designs which can be viewed on Andrew’s online gallery on his website. The MP invited West Sussex children’s author and illustrator Andréa Prior to help him choose a winner and 10 runners up which he is delighted to share with readers.
The winner was announced by Andréa Prior - www.andreaprior.me - on a short video on Monday morning (14th). Andréa also talks about some of the pictures which were shortlisted and why she liked them so much.
A painting by Khadija Manzoor, aged 8, a pupil at Hurstpierpoint College Prep School was picked as the overall winner. Her rainbow Christmas tree was chosen for its stand-out design and use of rainbow colours which reflect the nation’s gratitude to the tremendous efforts of the NHS and healthcare workers this year.
Andrew visited Khadija at her school to say thank you and present her with a prize of an art box, certificate and a signed book from Andréa Prior. She was joined by her headmaster and art teacher who were delighted she had won and revealed that her parents both work for the NHS.
The 10 runners-up have also been presented with a small prize and certificate, and every child who entered the competition received a personal letter of thanks from Andrew.
Commenting on today’s announcement Andrew said:
“I am absolutely delighted with my Christmas card and very grateful to Khadija for entering the competition. Her colourful tree Christmas tree with elements of the COVID ‘rainbow’ will stand out in any Christmas card display and immediately caught the eye of judge and local children’s author, Andréa Prior.”
Andrew added:
“This has been such a difficult year for everyone. Our children have had to constantly adapt to new routines, with time away from the classroom and home-schooling, missing their friends and regular social activities, and experiencing changes to their classrooms and playtimes. I know they will be looking forward to the holidays. I wish them and all readers a happy Christmas and a much brighter 2021.”
