Six-year-old lands first prize in Jubilee art competition

Joanne Parkhill said although Rachel is a keen and enthusiastic artist, even she was surprised when she was awarded first prize.

The competition was organised across Cheshire West and Chester libraries, with two aspects – one for poetry and another for art.

Rachel, a pupil at Hartford Manor Primary School worked tirelessly on her patchwork portraits of the Queen which obvioulsy caught the eye of the judges.

“The children could either do a portrait or any other piece of artwork to do with the Queen,” Joanne said.

“I found out about it via a newsletter and suggested Rachel give it a go.

“Entries were supposed to be made by schools rather than individuals, but I submitted it anyway on behalf, and she won!

“She didn’t do it all in one sitting and really takes her time with things.

“We’re all just proud and pleased for her.

“It’s been a difficult few years for all children because of Covid.”

Rachel's patchwork portraits of the Queen

The winning works of art are going on display at Chester Town Hall during the extended Jubilee weekend, but Rachel and her family will be out of the country on holiday.

“We’re actually going to be away for ten days, so we’ll miss getting the chance to see it,” she added.

“Luckily for us as a family, Granny is going to see it on our behalf."

Rachel’s school will also win a voucher for providing the winning entry, although the success had come initially as shock to them.

“The school was quite shocked when they found out, as they had no idea I’d entered her," Joanne added.

“They were really pleased for her and they even gave her recognition at a special assembly."

Hartford Manor Primary head Jan Diamond with Rachel

Jan Diamond, Head of School at Hartford Manor Primary said: “We’re so proud of Rachel for taking part in the jubilee art competition.

“It’s clearly taken a lot of time and effort to produce such a wonderful piece of work to commemorate this special occasion.

“We’re delighted that she won first prize.”