CHRISTMAS has come early for an artistic 11-year-old whose design was chosen as the winner of the Telegraph & Argus Children’s Digital Christmas Card competition.

Abigail Holmes, 11, was encouraged to enter the contest by staff at Sandal Primary School in Baildon.

But mum Gill said her daughter was shocked when she found out she had won.

Gill said: “She couldn’t believe her card had been chosen. She didn’t think she was going to win because she was up against designs by 14 year olds. So she was shocked.”

Abigail was delighted to receive 30 cards featuring her design and a mini iPad as her prize.

Gill added: “The iPad is an early Christmas present and I don’t think we will be able to top it but she’s certainly very happy. She’s put an iPad case on her wishlist now.”