Schoolchildren had a chance to show off their artistic talent in the opening event of Thetford's Great Festival.

Shadwell Estate's 'Hare-Brained' Schools Art Competition, saw children from local primary schools decorate one of eight 'moon-gazing hares'.

Now in its fifth year, the competition was judged by Mayor of Thetford Terry Jermy at King's House gardens in Thetford on Friday evening.

Chris Kennard, finance director at Shadwell, also attended, along with pupils and parents from the schools which took part – Barnham Primary, Bishops Primary, Drake Infant School, East Harling Primary, Garboldisham Church Primary, Norwich Road Academy, Raleigh Infant School and Redcastle Furze Family School.

The winning entry was from Redcastle School, whose 'Gazing across the Brecks' hare depicted the traditional Brecks landscape and wildlife. The school also received £2,000 prize money, donated by Shadwell.

Garboldisham Primary's hare Herbert came second and won a £1,000 prize, while Raleigh Infant School came third and won £500 for their hare Lulosa.

Mr Jermy said: 'It is a fantastic effort from all of you.

'This is a tremendous competition that Shadwell run and they give great support to us.'

Thetford's Great Festival runs from August 19 to September 4. For more information visit www.thetfordsgreatfestival.org.