STUDENTS from four schools and colleges from across the News Shopper region have entered an annual art competition.

The sixth annual John Downton Awards, which celebrates the creativity of young artists, will take place on April 30.

Three entries are being submitted by Gravesend Grammar School for Girls, in Pelham Road, Gravesend and six from Bromley High School, in Blackbrook Lane, Bickley.

Leigh City Technology Cottage in Green Street Green Road, Dartford has submitted six entries and Wilmington Grammar School for Boys, in Common Lane, Wilmington, has put forward one entry.

The awards were created by Hilda Downton, the sister of the late Sevenoaks artist John Downton and see a variety of prizes given out, including a £50 for the overall People's Prize, which is voted for by visitors to the gallery.

Ahead of the official ceremony, a panel of experts will judge the submitted artwork, which is displayed at the County Gallery, in Maidstone.

The entries are divided into two age groups, 11-15-year-olds and 16-18 year olds and gold, silver and bronze prizes will be awarded.

Mike Hill, Kent County Council's cabinet member for community services, said: "The John Downton scheme provides our young people with a great incentive to be creative and a chance for them to have their work displayed in a public gallery.

"Very well done to the entrants and I wish them good luck in the final competition."