Gondola painting prize is snow joke

THE artistic talents of a Ross-shire pupil could soon be seen by skiing fans from across the world – after a leading resort and local MSP teamed up for a special competition.

Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch MSP Kate Forbes has linked up with Nevis Range for her latest annual Christmas card contest.

And the winning design won’t just adorn her constituency cards this festive season – it will also be printed on the side of one of the cable car gondolas that rise up Aonach Mor near Ben Nevis.

The winner will also get the chance to see the cable car up close – for they’ll be treated to a ride in it as well. It is the third year that Ms Forbes has held a Christmas card contest, and she was thrilled by the prize offered by Nevis Range.

"As we head towards winter, and the skiers and snowboarders make their way to Lochaber, I love the idea that they’ll head up the mountain in a gondola and see a festive design by a primary school pupil," she said.

"This is a fantastic prize, which I hope will encourage even more school pupils to take part. At the end of the day, this is about encouraging kids to get involved with something a little bit different."

Chris O’Brien, CEO of the Nevis Range, added: "We can’t wait to showcase the winning design and we’re delighted to be partnering with our local MSP Kate Forbes."

Every primary school in the Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch constituency has been sent a letter inviting them to participate, with the short brief of an A5 drawing on the theme of a Highland winter – featuring aspects of the region’s landscape, culture and sports. Entries will be displayed in the window of Ms Forbes’ constituency office on Dingwall High Street.

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