A POETRY competition has been launched to celebrate Darlington's community carnival.

The competition, run by Darlington Borough Council, is open to schoolchildren in the borough and is aimed at raising environmental awareness.

Children are being encouraged to enter a poem for the planet, based on one of two themes - Endangered Species, for the under tens, or Our Town, Our World, Our Future, for 11 to 16-year-olds.

The entries will be split into four age categories, each with a winner and runner up.

The overall winner will be awarded a trip for two to the Earth Centre, Doncaster.

Countryside community officer Sarah Storey said: "This is a great opportunity for children to voice their concerns and learn more about the environment, while also celebrating the beauty and diversity of our world."

The closing date for entries is June 14. For more information, contact Ms Storey on (01325) 388637.

The carnival is on June 29 and 30 and will include a themed procession through the town centre, and music in Stanhope Park.

Sunday's events will feature a Green Fair, with organic food and wine and trad jazz in the market place.