TWO Auchinleck school pupils were runners-up in a national challenge for budding young artists.

They were in a group of 30 who were presented with a specially designed certificate at the John Byrne National Drawing Competition.

Kacey Gray, P7, Auchinleck Primary School and S3 pupil Megan Gemmill of Auchinleck Academy made the cut from an entry of thousands from across Scotland who took part.

The John Byrne National Drawing Competition, which is run in partnership with Education Scotland, is for pupils from primary four through to third year.

Mr Byrne said: “The talent this year has been outstanding which made my job as a judge very difficult in choosing the overall winners.

"I’m encouraged by the standard of all the artwork submitted in this year’s competition, the outstanding talent has been remarkable.

"I hope pupils across Scotland will continue to harness their artistic skills and love for drawing."

The award ceremony took place at Paisley Museum, where a special exhibition of competition entries are on display for approximately five weeks.

Bill Maxwell, Education Scotland chief executive, added: “I’m really pleased to see this competition, now in its third year, continue to attract such a high standard of entries from young artists of all ages.

"Education Scotland is delighted to be involved in the competition as it offers pupils, across Scotland, the opportunity to showcase their drawing skills and creativity and it is a great way to raise the profile of drawing. Congratulations to all the winners and those who took part."