Herefordshire Girl Wins Halloween Competition

Competition Winner Gemma Mason With CSO Elena EkaniteAn 8-year-old girl from Bobblestock has been chosen as the Herefordshire winner of West Mercia Police's annual Halloween colouring-in competition.

Gemma Mason's poster was chosen from more than a hundred entries across the county, earning her a £20 book token and a letter from Chief Constable David Shaw.

The competition required children to colour in a poster that passes on messages about staying safe and respecting people's privacy when out trick-or-treating.

West Mercia Police received nearly 1,300 entries this year - the most the competition has ever had.

CSO Elena Ekanite from the Three Elms & St Nicholas Local Policing Team presented Gemma with her prize.  CSO Ekanite said: "Gemma was delighted to have won and it was great to see her smiling face when I went round to present her prize."

"We had almost 150 competition entries in Herefordshire which was really pleasing but, having seen the colouring Gemma did, I have to say that she was a deserving winner."

On hearing she was the winner, Gemma said: "I'm really pleased to have won the competition and it was a real surprise when I got the call to tell me my entry had been chosen as the best.

"I knew quite a few of my friends has entered so I wasn't sure how many people were in the competition and how much chance I had.

"I really look forward to spending the book token in the build up to Christmas but I think I'll be spending it on myself and not buying anyone presents with it!"

Anna Thomas, Campaign Manager for West Mercia Police said: "There was an excellent response to the competition - a really high entry.  I'd like to thank all the children who took part and hope they had fun colouring the posters while learning some important safety messages.

"A thank you also goes to the schools for allowing children to become involved as part of their class activities."

Issued: Thursday, 08 December 2011