A WIRRAL schoolgirl has been crowned runner up in the annual Merseyside Police Christmas card competition.

On Friday, December 15, superintendent Ian Hassall surprised 11-year-old Millie Almond at Irby Primary School.

Millie received a £20 voucher and £100 donation for her school.

Her design will be used by Merseyside's Police Commissioner Jane Kennedy as her Christmas e-card this year.

Millie came runner up to 10-year-old Elizabeth Prescott from St. Mary's School in St. Helens who was awarded first place for her 'don't drink and drive' card entry.

Pupils aged between seven and 11 from five primary schools, one from each local policing area, took part in the competition. 

All pupils who submitted Christmas cards received certificates for their entries.

The challenge was set by Merseyside Police for pupils to create a card containing key crime prevention messages to keep people safe over the festive period and chief constable Andy Cooke faced a tough decision when choosing the winner.

He said: “It’s always a pleasure to judge the annual Christmas card competition and this year, as always, there were some fantastic entries. It was a hard choice but Elizabeth’s design was the winner for me and I’m sure everyone who receives the e-card will be absolutely delighted.”

“The children are a credit to their schools and the community and it’s great to be able to spread some Christmas cheer throughout the force with their help.

"The cards have always proved very popular and long may the tradition continue.”

Ms Kennedy said: “Congratulations to Millie and all the winners from this year’s Christmas card competition, as well the dozens of young artists who took part across Merseyside.

“It’s important that young people are encouraged to think about how they can stay safe.

"This competition was a great way to get the children thinking about how to look after themselves around our roads, and urging others to do the same.

"The designs show they had some really creative ideas and I am delighted to be sending Millie’s design to hundreds of people across Merseyside.”