RETIREMENT housebuilder, McCarthy and Stone, is inviting the local community in Ilkley to take part in a special creative challenge to be in with a chance of winning a prize.

The competition will be judged by Addingham-based artist, Julia Keates, whose work in oil, acrylic and mixed media has turned her into a much-loved local talent running her own creative projects, as well as accepting private commissions.

Set to open in June, the developer is launching a new dual retirement complex named Scholars Place. As part of its commitment to engage with the local community, McCarthy and Stone is hosting an art competition to help decorate the new hoardings outside the development, which will be filled with butterflies.

The winning butterfly designs, as judged by Julia Keates, will be printed and fixed onto the hoardings. One overall winner will be awarded a cheque for £150. In addition, four runners up will receive a cheque for £50.

The competition is open to all ages and abilities from across Ilkley and the surrounding areas. More information about the competition, and for details on how to enter visit: https://www.mccarthyandstone.co.uk/art-comp-terms/ . The deadline for entries is February 22, 2018.

Julia Keates, said: “I am thrilled to be involved in this campaign alongside McCarthy and Stone to encourage creativity within the local Ilkley community, and I look forward to seeing all the entries and having the tough task of choosing our winner.”

Liz Green, Regional Sales and Marketing Director for McCarthy and Stone North East, added: “We would like to thank Julia for agreeing to be our judge for this exciting competition. We are thoroughly looking forward to inviting local people to put their unique touch on our new development in Ilkley, and we hope the butterflies will add colour and provide a positive talking point in the town; something people of all ages, local children and families can get involved in. Simply send us your design by 22nd February 2018 for your chance to scoop a prize!”

To enter the competition, post their entries to: Ilkley ‘Butterfly Competition’, C/O McCann PR, McCarthy & Stone Team, Communications House, Highlands Road, Shirley, Solihull, West Midlands, B90 4WE.

Entries can be submitted in any medium and must be supplied in A4 or A3 format.