The Muscular Dystrophy Group invites young artists aged four to 18 to put on their own competition on or near June 5 on the theme “Burrowers Underground”. (Creatures could include worms, beetles, ants, foxes, badgers and moles). Free chalks, advice and help with prizes is provided. A pitch costs pound;1 and the profit is split equally between the local organisers and the Muscular Dystrophy Group. Following the event, send in by June 17 coloured photographs of all first prize-winning drawings from each age group to be judged by experts. The winner will receive pound;200 and a trophy. Closing date for enrolment: April 30. Details: Barbara Bate, 01304 611428 (telfax).

SSI YOUNG JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR

Sight Savers International is inviting budding writers aged 11 to 16 to write a 300-500 word feature on “What sight means to me” by April 30. Sponsored by Boots Opticians and RM (the educational information technology company), prizes include: a tour of the ITN studios with Trevor McDonald, a mountain bike and a training package from the National Council for the Training of Journalists. Details in leaflets in Boots stores or on Website, www.eduweb.co.uk or by writing to Vindy Bains, SSI, Grosvenor Hall, Bolnore Road, Haywards Heath, West Sussex RH16 4BX.