DOZENS of youngsters got creative for a museum competition by exploring the positive aspects of lockdown and celebrating all things nature.

Kendal Museum invited 38 local primary schools to participate in an art and photography competition celebrating all things nature and wildlife last month.

The children were asked to draw, paint or photograph anything they had seen and experienced throughout the weeks of lockdown.

“We were overwhelmed by the response and delighted to receive so many entries from local children,” said Michael Bult, Kendal Museum manager.

“They all worked really hard and were so imaginative; they should all be very proud of their work."

The community-driven competition aimed to encourage children to focus on the few positive aspects of lockdown; going for local walks with their parents, birdwatching through their windows and getting to know nature.

Scarlett, aged 9, said: “During lockdown I was inspired to take photographs of the ducks who seemed to be having lots of fun.”

The final entry date for the competition was on June 19 and will soon be displayed in a special exhibition for everyone to enjoy.

The winners for both age groups in each category will receive prizes from the competition sponsors Youdells Art Shop and Morrisons supermarket.

James Bell, a renowned Lakes photographer, will be judging the photography entries.

Claire Griffel, a local artist, photographer, and storyteller, will judge the art entries, along with Mat Butler, local artist and creative director of Cumbrian charity Space2Create.

Parents, guardians, and the general public have also been encouraged to vote for their personal favourites by visiting the exhibition.

The competition entries will be displayed over the summer holidays in the exhibition gallery at Kendal Museum from July 8 and will be open from 9.30 to 4.30, Thursday to Saturday.