YOUNGSTERS are being invited to do their bit to promote locally-produced food.

The Clayport Library, in Durham City, is staging a competition for children aged five to 15 to design a postcard promoting food grown close to home.

It is to encourage young people to think about fresh and tasty food which has not been transported long distances.

Winning designs will be turned into postcards to promote Durham Local Food Celebrations during British Food Fortnight, from September 24 to October 9.

Judging will be in three age groups - five to seven, eight to 11 and 12 to 15 - with winners receiving £10 book tokens.

Entries should be on A5 size paper and sent to Anita Thompson, Clayport Library, Millennium Place, Durham DH1 1WA, by September 3.

Clayport Library is also holding an Eat Your Countryside event next Saturday, from 2pm, for children which will look at the importance of buying and eating local food.

An hour of activities and games will be led by Jason Martin, education officer with Groundwork East Durham.