Posted on: Thursday 14 December 2023
An annual Christmas card competition run by Torfaen Play Service and two community councils has received a record 500 entries.
This week, the designs were shortlisted and 32 children were invited to celebration events at Cwmbran and Pontypool Community Council offices, where they were presented with Torfaen Play packs and a selection box.
Winners Emily Stott, 8, from New Inn Primary School, and Rosy Ryan, 6 from Llantarnam Primary School, will now have their designs turned into cards, which the Play Service will send all the children who took part.
It comes as the Play Service announced a series of new sessions in the New Year including a Play and Activities camp at Cwmbran Stadium and Play and Respite sessions, which will run between January 3 and 5.
Councillor Richard Clark, Executive Member for Children, Families and Education, said: “It was fantastic to see so many creative designs from the children and seeing them produced into Christmas cards. Well done to all involved!
“Torfaen Play Service provides high-quality and inclusive play opportunities for children and young people in line with the council’s vision of making Torfaen a place where everyone has the best possible start in life."
The award were presented by Pontypool Community Council Leader Gaynor James and Cwmbran Community Council Leader, Councillor Leanne Lloyd-Tolman.
Cllr Lloyd-Tolman said: “I was delighted to be asked to judge the competition entries. It was very difficult as the standard of entries was amazing and truly showcased the talent of the young people in Cwmbran.”
Cllr Gaynor James added: “Christmas Card competition think it is lovely idea that Torfaen Play have arranged this. We are proud of all the winning designs and to have them made into Christmas cards. As leader I enjoyed meeting all the finalists and viewing the winning entries. Well done to all who entered.”
The Play and Activity sessions at Cwmbran Stadium are for children aged between 8 and 12. The Play and Respite sessions, for children aged between 5 and 18, will be run at different locations in the borough.
For information, contact torfaenplay@torfaen.gov.uk or visit Chwarae Torfaen Play on Facebook and @Torfaenplayserv on Twitter.