A South Tyneside teenager has scooped a top prize in a national competition aimed at stamping out racism.
15-year-old Regan Brown of Park View School in South Shields won first prize in the Year 10+ Artwork and Creative Writing category of the contest organised by anti-racism educational charity Show Racism the Red Card which uses football to tackle racism in society.
More than 20,000 young people from across the country submitted anti-racism themed artwork, creative writing, film and music entries. Regan designed a poster to promote anti-racism and get the message across that everyone should be treated equally regardless of their race.
Regan has now been invited to an awards ceremony at the Boleyn Ground, home of West Ham United FC, later this month, where she will be presented with a football shirt and other prizes.
Head Teacher at the school, Chris Rue, said: “We are delighted to receive the news that Regan’s poster design was a national winning entry. All of our students with their class teacher, Joanne Scott, have worked really hard on their topics this term, especially on challenging prejudice. I am extremely proud of all of them.
“I know Regan is really looking forward to the trip to West Ham United to receive her certificate and her own premier league football shirt. We are hoping that this is just the start and that many more Park View students will be recognised for their own success and achievements next term and beyond.”
Councillor Joan Atkinson, Lead Member for Children, Young People and Adults, added: “It is fantastic to see a talented local student recognised in a national competition in this way.
“Equally importantly, it showcases the fantastic work that our schools do, in conjunction with partners, to highlight the dangers of racism and promote understanding among young people.”