A CHILDREN'S competition has been launched to design the panels of a hot air balloon being built by Nightingale House Hospice with the help of its supporters and local businesses.

The campaign is aimed at children up to the age of 16 and the winning art work will adorn the sides of the balloon which will take to the sky in the summer.

There are six age categories for competition entries - three and under; ages four and five; six, seven and eight; nine, ten and 11; 12, 13 and 14; and ages 15 and 16.

The winner of each category will see their design take to the skies when the balloon is launched. They will also receive a Build a Balloon certificate and a commemorative pin badge.

Entries cost £2 each with all profits going towards patient care and family support services at Nightingale House Hospice. The competition runs until 24th March.

Sarah Povey from the Hospice said: “We wanted to give everyone in our community an opportunity to get involved in the balloon project including the younger generation. We hope children across the community will take part at home or in school.

“We know the last few months have been difficult for children and families with lockdowns and home schooling. We hope the competition provides a fun activity to keep the kids occupied for half an hour and allows their imagination to run wild.”

To enter please visit www.nightingalehouse.co.uk/fundraising