MORE than 100 ‘thoughtful and imaginative entries’ were received from children across the community when Watchet Town Council held a schools poetry and art competition as part of its commemoration of the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day.

The council said it wanted to encourage the town’s young people to spend some time reflecting on the importance of the day and to express their thoughts in a creative manner.

So, the authority invited pupils of local primary and middle schools to submit original poems and pieces of artwork inspired by their thoughts on what VE Day meant to them personally.

The winner was Chloe Wickens, a year six pupil in Danesfield Middle School, Williton, who received a £25 gift voucher.

Town clerk Jo Grellier said: “Danesfield stood out in the art category, with many exceptional submissions.

“After careful consideration, Chloe was selected as the overall winner for her outstanding artwork.

“Chloe’s artwork truly captured the spirit of remembrance, hope, and community that VE Day represents.

“Her creativity, thoughtfulness, and talent shone through, making her a very deserving winner.”

Ms Grellier said pupils of Knights Templar First School also impressed the judges in the poetry category, with a selection of ‘heartfelt and meaningful’ pieces.

The winning poem from Knights Templar will be formally recognised at a special awards ceremony to be held in the school in July.

Watchet Mayor Cllr Loretta Whetlor said: “It has been truly inspiring to see how the younger generation have engaged with the significance of VE Day through art and poetry.

“Their creativity and thoughtfulness are a testament to the importance of remembering our shared history.”

Cllr Whetlor and Ms Grellier both attended Danesfield Middle School this week to congratulate Chloe on her wonderful artwork and present the gift voucher prize.