'A posy fit for a Queen' - Winners crowned in school Jubilee competition

Thousands of pupils across the county have honoured the Queen with their Jubilee inspired artwork.

In celebration of Her Majesty's 70-year reign, the Norfolk Gardens Trust (NGT) held a primary school competition to find the 'perfect picture of a posy' to display at the Royal Norfolk Show.

The charity, which works to protect and promote Norfolk gardens and landscapes, launched the competition in March to also raise awareness of the importance of flowers in Norfolk's 'history and royal heritage'.

Pupils were asked to draw or paint a bunch of flowers that they thought the monarch would enjoy, with prizes on offer for some of the best.

And artwork came "flooding" in for judging on May 20 and 21.

Hilary Talbot, volunteer at NGT, said they were "blown away" by the level of interest after receiving more than 900 entries.

She said: "We asked schools to submit only the best four paintings from each class which means that over 5,000 pupils across Norfolk primary schools have taken part in this competition.

"We were also amazed by the creativity and quality of the artwork submitted, and by the enthusiasm and passion of so many of the schools."

The Lady Dannatt, Lord-Lieutenant of Norfolk, judged the competition and presented prizes to the winning schools on Wednesday, May 25 at County Hall.

Sila Hamed, 11, from North Denes Primary School in Great Yarmouth, was crowned the winner, taking the first prize of £500 back to her school to be used on garden projects.

George Howlet, five, from Thomas Bullock Primary Academy in Shipdham, was awarded second prize after impressing judges with his "vibrant painting".

The 'best written prize' was given to Ronnie, four, from Weeting Primary School for his piece on purple flowers, which he thought would remind the Queen of her crown and Prince Philip.

The highly commended awards went to Zuzanna Bialek, 10, from Drake Primary in Thetford, Elena Jenner, 8, from Castle Acre Primary in King's Lynn, Jess Read, 10, from Peterhouse Primary Academy in Great Yarmouth, Bethany Love, 10, from Northgate Primary in Great Yarmouth and Clementine McArthur, 10, from Rocklands Primary School in Attleborough.

And the NGT special arts prize was awarded to pupils at Drake Primary. The school also received £200.

For more information about NGT visit norfolkgt.org.uk

Queen Jubilee magazine

As Her Majesty celebrates her record-breaking reign we have delved into our archives to create a tribute to her life and 70 years of service. Filled with photos and history, Our Queen's Platinum Reign is a magazine we hope readers will treasure for years to come. This special souvenir is available for £9.99 online and in-store. 

Order online by clicking this link www.gblshop.co.uk/jubilee. 

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