Workington youngsters are being encouraged to make it a merry Christmas this year by submitting their entries to the mayor's Christmas card competition.

Workington Town Council's mayor, Janet King, has launched the annual competition, which this year has the theme "the joy of Christmas".

It is open to anyone who lives in Workington between the ages of four and 18.

The winning picture will be used on the front of the mayor's Christmas card, and will be invited to turn on the town's Christmas lights.

The switch-on will take place on November 28, at 5pm, and will be broadcast live on social media to ensure social distancing can be adhered to.

The competition has three age categories: four to seven, eight to 11 years and 12 to 18.

The winner, plus a runner up in each age category, will receive a hamper full of treats.

Mrs King said she was pleased the competition could go ahead this year.

"Although we had to cancel the Christmas festival, we still really wanted to do something for the children," she said.

"I really hope they have fun with the theme.

"Christmas is going to be a bit different from previous years, but it doesn’t mean we can’t appreciate the joy it brings to us all.’

For more information and to enter the competition, click here.