A LOCKDOWN project to help children in Minehead and beyond notice the "silent giants" in their neighbourhoods, has recently celebrated a major milestone.

The "My Communi-Tree" art competition marked its fifth anniversary with a prize-giving ceremony at Periton House, attended by families, educators, and Dr Ian Kelham, the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Somerset.

This newly named, “My Communi-Tree,” challenged young artists to go beyond the trunk and leaves. Participants were asked to identify and include five other living beings such as lichens, insects, or birds that rely on their chosen tree to survive.

The difficult task of judging the high-caliber entries fell to a panel of experts, including artist Leo Davey, Graeme McVittie, and Helen Jenkinson.

The winners in the three age categories were: ages 4 to 8 years Evan Walker-Blair, ages 9 to13 years April Bannon and the 3D category winner was Ben Norman.

Founded by Ema Rowe with Kerrie from Three Atop, the competition, originally known as "My Favourite Tree" was born from a simple observation.

During the 2020 lockdown, Ema noticed that while children could easily name their favourite superheroes, many were disconnected from the nature on their doorsteps, so she created a book, 'My Favourite Tree’.

Five years later, the initiative has flourished. To date, Ema has delivered 38 school assemblies, resulting in 667 pieces of 2D and 3D tree art.

The project is also moving into the digital age. In collaboration with Maya from Minehead and Coast, work is underway to create a map that will allow the public to find and visit the real-life trees that inspired the children’s artwork.

“In our busy, distracted world, we need to look after each other and the trees ecosystems around us from the slow-growing and miniature to the fast-moving and glamorous beings. This competition is about looking closer,” added Ema.