2017-02-14 Tue

We thought Christmas was over and the next one doesn’t seem to be approaching any closer in the near future. But here is something to extend the warmth of this winter festival! Royal Mail has invited schoolchildren to participate in a design competition for two Christmas stamps for this year. The first such competition was held in 1966. Similar contests were later held in 1981 and 2013. The theme for this year’s contest is the same as that of the 2013 contest - “What does the Christmas season mean to you?”

Children from England, between the age 4 and 11 can participate; entries are being accepted until 17th March. Two winners will be selected among 120 regional finalists. The designs will then have to be approved by Queen Elizabeth II like the original tradition. The winners will be declared in summer. Both the new non-denominated first-class and second-class Christmas stamps will be issued on 7th November.

So kids, time to get creative, take out those paints and brushes, start practising!