THE annual Ilkley Carnival Cover Competition is returning for another year as the build-up to the 2020 event begins.

This year’s theme, ‘Our Planet’, highlights the importance of environmental issues and the competition encourages children (aged five -16) to get creative and transform their ideas through a drawing, painting or digital design that reflects the theme. The winner will feature on the cover of the 2020 carnival programme which will be handed to visitors before and on the Sunday, May 3 event.

The annual competition is sponsored by Bradford Grammar School and for the third-year running is offering one lucky winner a luxury art set and tailored workshop for their classmates.

The Ilkley Carnival committee will judge the competition and chairman Andrew Stacey said: “This year’s theme will definitely give local children an amazing opportunity to express their creative side whilst considering current environmental issues. It’s incredible that the children can get involved so early on within the campaign and I can’t wait to see the results at our judging event on the 23rd March.”

There are three entry categories for the competition for children aged 5-8, 9-11 and 12-16. One lucky winner selected by the committee for the cover of the programme will appear on stage with other winners who will also receive a goodie bag from Bettys Café Tea Rooms and their framed artwork to take home on carnival day.

Simon Hinchliffe, headmaster of Bradford Grammar School, said: “Creativity is of utmost importance here at Bradford Grammar School and we always encourage students to give expression to their abilities in whatever they do, whether it is through music, playing sport, taking part in theatrical productions or their academic studies. We are delighted to once again be involved with this extraordinary event and cannot wait to see all the amazing art from our younger generation.”

All entries must be received by Monday 23 March and delivered in an envelope clearly marked ‘Ilkley Carnival Cover Competition’ to Pinnacle Graphic Design, 32-34 The Grove, Ilkley, LS29 9EE. Name, age, entry category, address and contact number or email must be clearly written on the back of each entry.

To find out more information about the Ilkley Carnival cover competition, head to https://www.ilkleycarnival.org/creative-competition/ and download the online entry form. For more Ilkley Carnival updates follow @ilkleycarnival on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.