Under 8s winner George Henry Haddow
Today, we can reveal the winners of our NHS75 children’s art competition.
We asked children to tell us in pictures what they love about the NHS to mark the service’s 75th birthday on 5 July.
George Henry Haddow, aged 7, was the winner of the category for under eights.
“I drew the rainbow because during Covid it was a sign of hope and every Thursday I went outside to clap,” he said.
Clare Stafford, ward manager on the children’s ward at Blackpool Victoria Hospital, was one of the judges and was particularly impressed with the thought that went into George Henry’s drawing. His mum echoed this, saying it took him all day.
Meriel Gundayao, aged 12, winner in the 8-14 years category, said she was inspired by her mum and dad who work in Blackpool Teaching Hospitals’ community services.
“My mum sometimes shares some stories about what she does at work, and it really inspired me about how she helps people, and that people are so kind,” she said.
Her drawing, which features bunting of inspirational words particularly stood out to judge Diane Booth, Head of Children’s Community Services: “Meriel’s drawing reflects lots of positive words about the NHS and resonated with me personally as we strive to live by these values every day.”
Meriel said she one day wants to be a doctor and follow in the footsteps of her parents by having a career that helps people.
They each received family tickets to Merlin Entertainment attractions in Blackpool.
Meriel Gundayao, winner in the 8-14 years category
Bobby Bear, mascot of the Blue Skies Hospitals Fund charity, stepped in when judges struggled during the judging session and selected his own special winner.
Harry Bond, aged 12, couldn’t believe it when he found out his drawing had been selected.
“I feel so lucky to have the NHS. If we didn’t have it, then we would have to pay which could be really expensive – they help everyone,” he said.
Head of Charity Kila Redfearn, who organised a special hamper of Bobby Bear goodies for Harry, added: “Harry’s drawing really stood out as someone who had thought about how the NHS looked 75 years ago and how it looks today, it is very impressive.”
Harry Bond, aged 12
The submitted drawing will be randomly gifted to patients on our older people’s services.