A DISPLAY of festive artwork by schoolchildren has been unveiled at Middlesbrough Sports Village.

Middlesbrough Mayor Dave Budd did the honours in officially declaring the exhibition open for the Christmas period.

More than 100 youngsters entered a competition run by Middlesbrough Council asking for a new design and colour for Santa's hat.

As a result 38 children now have their work on display at the popular sports facility, while the winning boy and girl – seven-year-old Sadie Smith from Ingleby Barwick and Marley Cullum, also seven and from Billingham – were also honoured with a place in Santa’s sleigh in the town’s Reindeer Parade last Sunday.

Mr Budd said: “Earlier this year we asked schoolchildren to put their creative minds to creating a picture relating to the Tour de Yorkshire coming to Middlesbrough and they didn’t disappoint.

“That display proved very popular at the Sports Village and we hope this one provides festive cheer over the Christmas period.

“I have stated how important culture is to me and is to Middlesbrough and whether it is our world class art galleries, museums, events celebrating our town’s heritage or encouraging our young people in their creative endeavours, they are all worthy of our attention.

“Everyone who entered should be proud of themselves and I hope the winners enjoyed taking part in the Reindeer Parade in Santa’s Sleigh – I’m sure they will have enjoyed what is a rare opportunity to be at the heart of one of our most popular celebrations.”