A NINE-year-old schoolgirl has won first prize in a global art and poetry competition.

Caroline Sherlock, a pupil at Beechwood Park School in Markyate, has won first prize in this year’s Global Canvas Art and Poetry Competition.

Wildlife artist and conservationist, David Shepherd judged the competition, which attracted over 1,500 entries from around the world.

Caroline’s 3D piece of work displays bees carrying the message: ‘Our future is hanging by a thread’, and is now on display at the Natural History Museum.

Another Beechwood Park pupil, Noah Flanagan, won second prize in the Under 8 category. Both pupils received their prizes from David Shepherd at a recent prize-giving ceremony at the Natural History Museum.

Mr Shepherd said: “Once again children from all over the world have demonstrated not only great artistic flair but a real empathy for wildlife conservation.

“It never ceases to amaze me how astute children are. They have a real grasp of conservation issues and what really matters if we are to save this amazing planet of ours. It’s heart-warming to know that the next generation may be passionate enough to make a difference.”

Beechwood Park School’s headmaster, Patrick Atkinson, commented: “We are delighted that Caroline and Noah have done so well in this competition. The artworks of 15 other Beechwood Park pupils were also selected to be exhibited at the Natural History Museum. Congratulations to all our talented artists and our inspirational head of art, Edwina Wilks.”