LOUGHTON Town Council has thrown open the doors for budding local artists to design its annual Christmas card.

Anyone who lives, works or attends school in Loughton, is eligible to put forward a design, and the winning entry will receive a £25 gift token and certificate.

There are three children's categories and one adult category.

The overall winning entry will be reproduced and used as the council's official 2010 Christmas card, while a selection of the best runners-up will go on display at Loughton and Debden libraries throughout the festive period.

Entry forms are available to download from loughton-tc.gov.uk or can be collected from Loughton and Debden libraries or the council's offices at Buckingham Court, in Rectory Lane.

Closing date for entries is Wednesday, November 3.