A STUNNING painting of Grange-over-Sands’ bandstand has won a Christmas card design competition organised by South Lakeland District Council (SLDC).

The snow-covered scene, painted by Brenda Craven from Ulverston, was picked by SLDC’s Chairman, Councillor Eric Morrell, to become the design for his official 2018 council Christmas card.

The competition was open to members of Grange & District Art Society and follows a similar initiative run last year, which involved pupils from Grange C of E Primary School

Cllr Morrell said: “Following the success of last year’s competition, this time around I wanted to get the local community involved in creating a Christmas card for me.

“Brenda’s painting really captures the essence of Christmas and has such fantastic detail, when I first saw the entries it was the one which really stood out.

“Overall the quality of the paintings was exceptional, I’d happily take several of them home to place above my mantelpiece.”

Cllr Morrell expects to send out around 200 of his official, signed SLDC Christmas cards.

Brenda’s prize for winning the competition is to have the painting framed, 20 cards for her own use and a Youdells Art Shop voucher.

Cllr Morrell added: “I would like to thank the art society and congratulate everyone who took part in the competition. I know people who receive my cards over the coming weeks will be absolutely thrilled.”