A DARLINGTON College student turned to the past for inspiration with her winning design for the mayor’s charity ball.

Graphics student, Maisie Humphries’ vintage inspired work will feature on the tickets, posters and menus at the annual ball which will take place next April.

Keeping with the cops and robbers theme, the 16-year-old based her piece on the first police officers, known as ‘Bobbies’ or ‘Peelers.’

The competition was judged by mayor and former policeman, Brian Jones and his wife and councillor, Doris.

Councillor Jones said: “We were looking for a design that captured the theme and also included a sense of humour.”

Ms Humphries, who plans to study at Falmouth University, said: “I was really surprised and happy to win when there were so many great images to choose from.”

The ball will raise funds for St Teresa’s Hospice, the Samaritans, the 700 Club and Breathe Easy.

The runners up were Mark Stoker, 25, from Stanhope and Nathan Oliver, 16.