The Chairman of Rochford District Council, Councillor Jo McPherson, is inviting young people who live in or attend an infant or primary school within the Rochford District to take part in this year’s Chairman’s Christmas card design competition.
Children are invited to show what kindness means to them at Christmas, whether it’s helping someone, sharing, saying thank you, or simply doing something thoughtful. Big or small, these gestures capture the true spirit of the season, and the Chairman hopes to see that reflected in their artwork.
Children should create a festive illustration on A4 paper in portrait format, inspired by the theme. To ensure the winning design can be reproduced, materials like cotton wool or glitter should be avoided. The winning design will be featured on the cover of the Chairman’s official Christmas card.
Councillor McPherson, Chairman of Rochford District Council said: “Christmas is a season that brings out the best in us - kindness, generosity and a sense of togetherness. This competition gives children a chance to express those values in their own creative way. A thoughtful drawing can brighten someone’s day and remind us all of what truly matters. I’m looking forward to seeing how our young people capture the spirit of kindness this Christmas.”
The overall winner will receive a £50 gift voucher and a copy of the finished card, which will be sent by the Chairman to Mayors, Chairmen and dignitaries across Essex. Up to three runners-up will each receive a £10 gift voucher. All winners will be celebrated with a special presentation at their school by the Chairman.
Entries must include the pupil’s name, age, school name, and a contact for notification. They can be posted to Rochford District Council’s Civic Suite, 2 Hockley Road, Rayleigh, Essex, SS6 8EB, or scanned and emailed to civic.officer@rochford.gov.uk.
Designs can also be uploaded via the Council’s website at www.rochford.gov.uk/chairman. If you need a copy of the entry form, please email the Civic Office.
The deadline for submissions is Friday 21 November 2025.