Renowned portrait artist Alan Hydes has given his backing to a Telegraph & Argus competition encouraging youngsters to create an image of Bradford of the future.

Mr Hydes, well-known for his ITV television series, has urged children across the city to draw inspiration from the people who live in the city.

Mr Hydes, who lives in Apperley Bridge, said that if he was taking part in the competition he would focus on how the architecture of the city could reflect its residents.

"If I was projecting into the future I would see dome shapes, swirling patterns, taking influences from Pakistan and India which would be reflected in the buildings in a really modern style," he said.

"We could have something which is totally unique just because of the make up of the people that live here."

The competition, run in association with Bradford Council's Galleries and Museums, is being held in the run up to the Drawing Campaign's Big Draw which takes place at Cartwright Hall Art Gallery in Lister Park, Bradford, on Saturday, October 8.

Young artists are invited to sketch how they see the Bradford of the future, be it looking at buildings, transport or anything else.

Mr Hydes said: "If I were to do something it would be very colourful."

Now in its sixth year, the national week-long Big Draw campaign encourages everyone, from pre-school children to pensioners, to get drawing.

The T&A's Super City Competition is divided into three age groups, under six, seven to 11, and 12 to 16. The winner of each category will receive £50 worth of drawing materials as well as other superb prizes.

The judging panel includes Bradford Bulls captain and keen amateur artist Robbie Paul.

Entries must be done in pencil, either in colour or black and white, on A4 size paper. A completed entry form must be stuck on the back.

They must be received by Friday, September 23, and all entrants must be available to attend the Big Draw at Cartwright Hall on Saturday, October 8, when winners will be announced.