SMILING animals and happy pets inspired infants at a Bishop Auckland school to take part in an art competition.

Pupils at Cockton Hill Infant School, Bishop Auckland, were set the challenge of drawing a pet with a healthy smile for Pet Smile Month, a contest run by veterinary practices across the country.

The competition is designed to encourage children to take an interest in veterinary dentistry.

The children's work was judged by staff from the Kensington Veterinary Centre, Bishop Auckland.

John Redman, headteacher at the school, said: "The competition is to do with happy pets.

"One of the things we talk a lot about is caring for animals, and that is linked with the school's philosophy about being a caring school."

Daniel Koch, six, and Carey Latcham, seven, came first in their age groups and will now go through to the national finals.