Arty children drew on the year's events for inspiration - and used unusual materials - to design Christmas cards that will be seen by thousands of people.

The winner of the competition, Riya Rajesh, will have the chance to see her design on the official 2012 Christmas cards sent out by Hertsmere Borough Council.

Riya, a year two pupil at St Teresa’s School in Brook Road, Borehamwood, drew a Christmas tree with a Union Jack shaped flag at the top.

The seven-year-old beamed as she was handed a certificate as well as a £50 gift voucher at an awards ceremony on Thursday.

In second place was Potters Bar resident Sully MacCormack, seven, who used a range of materials including glitter, paint and leaves to create his festive design.

His drawing will be used for Mayor Pat Strack’s Christmas card, to be sent to other boroughs across Hertfordshire.

In joint third place were Radlett resident Ben Fullman, ten, and eight-year-old Ellen Harrison, who received £20 worth of gift vouchers each.

All four children were also presented with a pack of cards and a poster of their design as a token of their good work.

Councillor Strack, who judged the competition last month but announced the winners last week, said: “The four winners should feel very proud because it was a tough competition. Everyone put a lot of time and effort into their designs.

“Thank you very much to all the schools who took part, too. We could not have done it without their help and co-operation.”