Artist from Bedfordshire named winner in craft competition

The competition - run by Cosy Owl - was open to any artist in the East of England.

And Marie won with her painting of a gathering of deer on a frosty winter morning. The entry was well received by the panel of judges for its striking contrast of colours and strong winter themes.

Marie said: "I’m thrilled to have won and hope that this helps my artwork to be seen by others.

"I absolutely love deer, I even chose one for my business, Cing Design logo. For one of my paintings showing the gathering of deer to win is marvellous."

More than 60 artists entered the competition with original, homemade winter-themed creations to be in with the chance of winning a £100 high street voucher.

Richard Fewings of Cosy Owl said: “We are pleased to have been able to give artists across Bedfordshire the opportunity to share their work with the community. We have been overwhelmed by the positive feedback from artists in the Bedfordshire area and we will definitely look to explore a future competition perhaps for the whole of the UK.”