Maddie Cubberley (16 & Under winner) with the Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Trevor Cummings, and Anna Purce (10 & Under winner). Image: Ian Pedlow.

 The Ards and North Down ‘In Bloom’ Painting Competition winners have been announced with Bangor’s Anna Purce and Donaghadee’s Maddie Cubberley securing the spoils!

Running as part of the wider In Bloom competition, there were two categories for the painting competition. Seven-year-old Anna, who attends Ballymagee Primary School, claimed first position in the ‘10 & Under’ category with her beautiful painting that depicts trees, flowers, bees, and even a Bangor swan.

Meanwhile, 12-year-old Maddie won the ‘16 & Under’ category. The Movilla High School student, who enjoys horse riding and volunteering at her local riding school, painted a colourful picture of flowers and wildlife.

Both winners collected a gift voucher for their fantastic efforts.

The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Trevor Cummings, said:

"I was delighted to see Anna’s and Maddie’s excellent paintings. They both had some tough competition but their artistic talent and colourful paintings really impressed the judges. They are deserved winners and I’m sure they can’t wait to use their gift voucher to buy something for the garden that they can nurture and grow.”

For more information about the Ards and North Down In Bloom community competitions, visit ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk/inbloom.