Christmas came early for five young artists from across the borough.

On November 4, the winners of the Christmas card competition were announced after more than 400 entries.

Judging took place at the end of October with the Mayor of Hertsmere, cllr Martin Worster, his daughter Camilla and his granddaughters Lucy and Megan forming the judging panel.

Mayor cllr Worster said: “It was an opportunity for the children of Hertsmere to showcase their work and let their imaginations take over and it was clear from the outset that it would be a difficult task to pick the best five cards.

“Congratulations to all the winners and we’d like to say a really big thank you to all the children and schools that took part.”

First prize went to Ellis Morley, 6, from Bournehall Primary School in Bushey. His Santa’s sleigh design caught the eye of all the judges.

Jack Trimmer, 7, from St Teresa’s Catholic Primary School in Borehamwood won second prize with his peckish penguin.

Anna Reynolds, 7, from Bushey Manor Junior School; Riya Rajesh, 10, from St Teresa’s Catholic Primary and Prathm Patel, 10, Hartsbourne Primary in Bushey were also chosen by Mayor Worster for their eye-catching designs.

All five winners received a certificate, a gift voucher and a large poster version of their design and a pack of their own cards to give to friends and family.