YOUNGSTERS in Stockton are to be rewarded for taking part in an art competition.

Pupils from more than 26 primary, secondary and special schools in the borough took part in the Northumbria in Bloom children's calendar painting competition.

The competition, which was held in March and April, featured seven categories with entrants aged from four to 18.

A selection of the paintings are on display in the education room at Preston Hall.

Stockton's former mayor, Councillor Jean O'Donnell, judged the initial entries with the winning designs being chosen last month.

The 22 winners from seven groups will receive their awards from new mayor, Councillor Ann Cains, at Preston Hall Museum, near Eaglescliffe, on Wednesday, June 11.

The first placed winner from each of the seven groups will be submitted to the Northern regional finals, with the winning entries featured in the Northumbria in Bloom 2004 calendar.