Cradley MP Lynda Waltho is urging Cradley youngsters to take part in a Christmas card design competition to celebrate Big Ben’s 150th Anniversary.

The theme for this year’s competition is Parliament and Big Ben.

MP Lynda said she would be sending information packs out to schools across Cradley to encourage children to take part in the competition, which has four age categories.

She said: “It represents an excellent opportunity for young people in Stourbridge to get creative and win fantastic prizes, including a trip to the top of Big Ben and a meeting with the keeper of the Great Clock and the Clock Mechanics.

“I know there are many talented young people in my constituency and I would love the winner to come from Stourbridge.”

Lynda will put forward the best entry and runner-up in each category.

The winners will receive a trip to Parliament and prizes will be presented at a reception at the House of Commons.

Travel costs for the competition winners (and one accompanying adult per child) will also be covered.

Under 11s must be accompanied by and adult, and the Big Ben stairs are not suitable for children under six.

The closing date for the competition is February 28 2009.