Colouring competition helps build community links

A special colouring competition aimed at building community links with families from Afghanistan who have been resettled in Northamptonshire has been hailed a success.

Members of the Northampton South-West Neighbourhood Policing Team organised the competition as part of a programme of summer activities to support children who have recently moved to the county.

The competition was open to youngsters of all ages, and the neighbourhood team were delighted to receive more than 40 entries, which made judging very difficult for Inspector Andy Blaize, Inspector Beth Warren, and Sergeant Nick Paul.

PCSO Paul Hurst, who organised the competition, said: “At a time of uncertainty and challenge, particularly for the children who have had to leave their homes, I thought it would be nice to do something to help put a smile on their faces.

“The competition not only provided the children with a fun activity to do over the summer, but it was also a great way to show the different roles in the police and how we help communities.

“The response we had from the children was fantastic and we were delighted with how many entries we received. The standard of colouring was very high from all the youngsters, which made the judging very hard.

“We have visited the children and their families regularly over the past 12 months, to provide information on road and personal safety, and to help build relationships but more importantly, to make sure they feel part of the community.”

The three overall winners were presented with their prize - a Lego police set - by Inspector Warren, Sergeant Paul and PCSO Hurst. However, all the participants received a small bag of treats for taking part.