by Alan Quick

AS part of Sandford Parish Celebrations to mark the 90th Birthday of HM The Queen the pupils of Sandford School took part in an art competition to paint a picture of the Queen.

The winning entry was selected from more than 150 by judges, "Crediton Courier" Editorial Manager, Alan Quick, Sandford Parish Council chairman Shuana Waller, the parish clerk, Malcolm Vallance and from the village Queen’s 90th birthday celebrations committee, Marion Nosworthy.

The winning entry was the picture of the Queen painted by Ned Bissoni (10).

Ned will get a Book token and the six runners-up will get a set of the new Queen’s Birthday Stamps.

All the pupils at Sandford School will get a Special Sandford Ruler to mark the Royal Birthday on April 21 at a special assembly which will take place on April 29.

Ned’s picture has also been used as the cover of the School and village’s Birthday Card, which all pupils signed and which was sent to Her Majesty in time for the big day.

The picture will also be used for the front page of the cover for the booklet detailing the parish celebrations, which will take place on June 11 and 12.

This week the card was sealed at the school and taken by the oldest boy, Finn and girl, Florence and youngest girl, Bella and one of the youngest boys, Finlay, to be posted at Sandford Community Stores and Post Office.

Events planned as part of the Sandford 90th birthday celebrations have already included a "Clean for the Queen" event around the village.

Future events include history walks, treasure hunt, Street Market, a ceilidh, church service and a bring and share lunch.

On Sunday, May 22, Exeter Cathedral Choir will present a Choral Evensong, with music sung at the Queen’s Coronation, at St Swithun’s Church, beginning at 6.30pm.