JUDGES are running the rule over Christmas cards designed by 600 young people from County Durham.

The competition was open to members of the Durham County Council Children's Network, a support body for people with disabilities up to the age of 18.

Entrants were asked to design cards using drawings, collages or paintings, with the prize of a cuddly bison soft toy for the first 50 submitted.

Senior staff from stairlift maker Bison Bede, of Consett, the competition sponsor, met some of the youngsters who took part, at the launch of an exhibition of the cards yesterday.

The three winning designs will be used for Christmas cards to be sent to all Children's Network members.

Rob Watson, Children's Network project manager, said: "The network works closely with parent carers, schools, voluntary organisations and local businesses organising fun days, exhibitions and information days."

The exhibition can be seen in the Durham Room, at County Hall, today.