IN SUPPPORT of the UK’s leading cancer charity for children and young people, Southampton City Council Libraries have teamed up with CLIC Sargent, to launch a drawing competition that local children can enter to help other children who are seriously ill.

Staff from the Shirley Library were inspired to help after reading about the charity’s appeal for funds for a new Shirley-based “Home from Home” in Anglesea Road as reported by the Daily Echo.

The charity is planning to open the new haven, called ‘Jean’s House’ this autumn, providing vital free accommodation for young patients and their families during cancer treatment at nearby specialist Southampton Hospital.

The competition, which starts on Thursday, May 10 and lasts till the end of July, will be hosted at the five Southampton council Libraries where local children can draw a picture of their favourite book, with a suggested donation of £1.

The winner, selected by local illustrator and blogger, Amy Harwood, will have their picture framed and hung in the new house.

Catherine Brear, supervisor of Shirley library, said: “We were aware of the renovation works going on in Anglesea Road and know what an incredible difference the CLIC Sargent Home from Home will make to families whose children are being treated for cancer at Southampton Hospital.

“We hope that families come to their local library to have fun drawing and raise money for this great cause at the same time.”

Liz Blunt, fundraising and engagement manager for CLIC Sargent in Hampshire, said: “We can’t thank Southampton Libraries enough for their support for our appeal.

“Jean’s House has been specially-designed to be bigger and better than before, offering more space and comfort for families. We are asking for the public’s help to house even more families in desperate need, saving them hundreds of pounds and bringing crucial home comforts in a time of great turmoil”

Amy Harwood, said: “I’m honoured to be a judge for this competition and I can’t wait to see what the local children create. It’s great that the community is getting involved with this amazing campaign, the new home in Southampton will help and support so many families.”