MEMBERS of Ross Lions Club recently said they were “proud” that the winner of their local Peace Poster competition had won the UK contest - now they are “even prouder” after she was awarded a Merit at the International Finals in the USA.

John Kyrle High School pupil Martha Gibson was one of 23 national winners to be awarded a Merit at the Lions International Peace Poster Competition finals in Chicago.

Martha won the Ross Lions competition for her colourful entry featuring a dove in flight above the earth, and it was later announced that she had also won the competition for the best entry in the UK.

Then, after entries from approximately 600,000 children from 55 countries had been whittled down to just 109, Martha’s poster was chosen as one of the best 23 in the world.

Her poster was judged at club, district and multiple regional levels before reaching the international finals.

The contest was based on creativity, originality and the portrayal of the theme ”We Are All Connected”.

Martha will now receive a personal prize of $500 and a Certificate of Merit.

Describing her thoughts when creating the poster, Martha wrote: “We are all connected by our similarities underneath everything and peace comes from recognising that.

“Peace is the glue that holds us all together”

Ross Lions Youth Officer, Nick Dale, was “delighted” to be able to celebrate the success with Martha, together with the Head of Art Ms Davies and Headteacher of John Kyrle High School Mr Burton.

A spokesperson for the Lions said: “To be chosen as one of just 23 merit award winners from across the world is indeed a superb honour for all involved.

“Ross Lions would particularly like to thank the Art Staff of JKHS for all their support of this Lions International Competition and promotion of the theme of World Peace.”