YOUNGSTERS are being encouraged to get creative in the run-up to an art fair in Thirsk.

Wendy Gibson-Brown of the Artist Palette Shop has launched a children’s art competition along the theme of ‘All Creatures Great and Small’ ahead of an art fair in the town.

The winners will receive art goody bags and the finalists’ work will be displayed at the fair in Thirsk and Sowerby Town Hall on August 6.

The fair will feature up to 20 local artists exhibiting and selling their work but there are still stalls available for £20, with proceeds going to Jack Berry House rehabilitation centre in Malton and local good causes.

Ms Gibson Brown said: “The fair is not for profit and the competition is free.

“The idea is to tie in the competition with the art fair and exhibit the children’s work and there will also be a public vote for the favourite.”

There are two competition age categories, four to seven and eight to 11 and entries must be handed in at the shop on Millgate by August 1.

  • The art fair runs from 11am to 4pm during Thirsk Festival Day.