Darlington MP Alan Milburn has begun his planning for Christmas early.
The Labour MP has challenged the town's schoolchildren to design a festive card to be sent to family, constituents and party staff.
The winning card design will be sent to hundreds of people, including Prime Minister Tony Blair.
Mr Milburn said: "I'm sure that most people are pretty bored with the same old picture of Big Ben covered in snow that I usually send."
A spokeswoman for the MP said: "It is just a bit of fun and not a bit political.
"If there are children out there who don't know their MP it is a good opportunity for them to find out."
The competition is open to any child living in Darlington, aged 11 or over.
Entries should be posted to 123 Victoria Road, Darlington, DL1 5JH, by September 7.
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