ARTISTIC youngsters in Colchester are being encouraged to get creative as part of a school’s environmentally friendly contest.

St Mary’s Senior School for Girls, in Lexden Road, has just launched its Eco Art Competition for school age children.

The challenge has been set by the art department and eco team, who are looking for artworks which use recyclable materials or have a climate-conscious message.

Sarah Wilding is the eco-schools co-ordinator at St Mary’s, one of only five schools in the country to achieve national Eco-Schools Ambassador status.

She said: “St Mary’s is passionate about eco initiatives.

“[We are] are keen to encourage school age children to get creative while raising awareness of the importance of sustaining our environment.

“Wishing everyone the best of luck with their entries.”

Submissions to the competition can be in any format but must be sent digitally to communications@stmaryscolchester.org.uk by November 14.

The winners will be announced during St Mary’s Eco Week, which will run between November 21 and 25.  

The day after the conclusion of the special week, a Christmas Food and Craft Fair will also take place at the school from 10am until 2pm.

The free event will boast more than 30 stalls selling locally sourced products.

For more information visit stmaryscolchester.org.uk