A TOWN's police force is running an art competition for children in the area, based around what they are looking forward to doing most after social distancing measures are lifted.

Darlington Police is asking children to be as creative as they would like; whether that is colouring, painting, creating a sculpture or even writing a story or poem, in an art competition focused on plans after social distancing.

Alongside the creation, children should explain what they have made, This can be in writing or via a video.

PCSO Ashleighe Charlton put the competition together so that children in the area could focus on something positive.

She said: "Originally it started with myself and a colleague delivering colouring in pictures and a letter from the local PCSO to all the houses on our beat that displayed rainbows in their windows as a thank you for all their continued support.

"We were overwhelmed with the response so I decided to run with the art idea and create this competition.

"This will get them thinking about the fun things they’ll finally do when all of this is over as I know it’s a strange time for them."

Two entries so far are from sisters Amelle, 11, and Maizie, nine, Wrangham from Cockerton, Darlington.

The Northern Echo:

Mum, Sara Wrangham, 33, said: "They took part as they like to focus on the good things they can do after lockdown, having something to look forward to keeps them in good spirits.

"I am so proud of them, they miss their school, friends and family, and are normally both very busy doing their sports. They both compete in karate, Amelle dances and Maizie plays football so having to stay in has been hard for them, but through all of this they continue to smile.

The Northern Echo:

"They understand why we have to do it and they show their appreciation with the rest of our community every Thursday at 8pm."

Entry should be sent to ashleighe.charlton@durham.pnn.police.uk and will close on April 30 and the winner will be picked and announced on May 1, with prizes for winners.