SCHOOL children received a Christmas tree as a thank you for taking part in an arts competition.

Pupils from Mowden Hall School in Stocksfield were given the free Christmas tree last week, courtesy of Northumberland County Show and Forestry England, as a reward for entering the Children’s School Art Competition at this year’s show held in May.

The school was amongst 12 in the local area to receive a tree.

The theme of the competition was fittingly ‘woodland and forests’, to celebrate Forestry England’s centenary year.

Alex MacLennan, public affairs manager of Forestry England North-East, co-ordinated the competition.

He said: “There were some wonderful entries and the children and staff showed great talent.

“We are delighted to support the schools as a reminder of our great day at the show and the ongoing work of Forestry England.”

Nici Bailey, the headteacher's wife, said the children were encouraged to create hand made decorations for the tree, which they dressed themselves. Affirmations were attached to each pom pom, as the school continue their drive on mental health and wellbeing.

“We are extremely grateful for their kind prize and the children really enjoyed decorating the beautiful tree,” she said.