AS the Tour of Britain cycle race thundered through Northumberland last week, schools across the county were celebrating the outcome of an art competition to mark the occasion.

The winners of the competition run by Northumberland County Council, which saw pupils design themed cycling jerseys, were given the chance to see their ideas brought to life.

Among them was Adam Symes, a Year 4 pupil at Broomhaugh First School, Riding Mill, who designed a jersey which featured Hadrian’s Wall under a starlit sky. The youngster decided the World Heritage Site and Tynedale’s dark, starry skies, were two of the best things about living in the county.

As winner of the Reception to Year 4 category, he was presented with a framed copy of his jersey design by Hexham’s Coun. Cath Homer, cabinet member for culture, arts, leisure and tourism at the county council.

“Adam’s design is stunning and really captures the essence of Northumberland, especially the west of the county which is famous for its dark skies and Hadrian’s Wall,” Coun. Homer said. “It was a stand out entry and looks fabulous printed on to a jersey.”

A prize fund of £10,000 saw cash prizes for each winning school and £100 for each school that entered. Prize money was presented to the schools to spend on sporting activities and school trips.

A design from Wylam First School came second in the category, while Hexham Middle School were placed third in the Year 5 to Year 8 category and Prudhoe Community High School came second in the Year 9 and above category.

The council’s deputy leader, Coun. Wayne Daley, said: “Each and every pupil put in a great amount of effort and it was a tough decision choosing winners.”