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Hillesley Christmas card contest raises more than £2,500 for school

BBC Exterior of Hillesley Primary School. It is built with Cotswold stone and there is a large window. A crucifix cross is on the wall next to the window. A blue sign reading "Welcome to Hillesley C of E V A Primary School" is in front of the building.BBC
Money raised from the Christmas card competition will be used to create a new playground

A village Christmas card competition has raised more than £2,500 for a new primary school playground.

More than 100 residents submitted photographs for the competition with two winning entries chosen to adorn the cards which were then sold locally.

The new equipment will be installed at Hillesley Primary School in Gloucestershire.

Headteacher, Lucy Chandler, said: "Hillesley is such a lovely, supportive community."

Jasmine Watson. She is stood in front of a Christmas tree. She has blonde hair and is wearing a bright pink jumper. She is smiling at the camera.
Jasmine Watson organised the first Christmas card competition three years ago

It is the third annual contest, which was started by Jasmine Watson, former chair of Friends of Hillesley School (FOHS), a voluntary group which raises money for the school.

Ms Watson said: "These are not professional photographers, these are normal people living in Hillesley going out with their cameras or their phones and taking shots.

"They're really good shots - they're both deserving winners."

Michael de Graeve and Laura Cabry pictured with their winning photographs. Michael's photograph is of a gate which is covered in snow. There is a bright orange sunset in the sky. Laura's photograph is of a church, also covered in snow. The sun is setting in her image too.
Michael de Graeve (left) and Laura Cabry (right) with their winning photographs

Michael de Graeve and Laura Cabry, who both entered the competition for the first time this year, were chosen as joint-winners.

They both said they were "delighted" to win.

Lucy Chandler. She has dark hair and is wearing a bright purple coat. She is pictured outdoors on the school grounds, by a hedge. She is looking directly at the camera and smiling.
Lucy Chandler is the headteacher of Hillesley Primary School

Ms Chandler said the funds would be used to install a storytelling area, a water feature, and a maths and English area, after Christmas.

She added: "The village is always really supportive of everything the school does.

"It really is the hub of the community.

"The money will be really well used to enhance the children's education."

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