Artists and teachers have praised efforts to get more young people involved in Bradford International Festival this year, starting with a fantastic art competition being run by the Telegraph & Argus and Education Bradford.

The competition, based on the festival theme of 'Love', is aimed at including schoolchildren of all ages in the festival.

And all the work submitted will go on display in Bradford city centre during the event.

Mike Charnock, head teacher of Westwood Park Primary School, Cooper Lane, Buttershaw, said: "I think the competition's a great idea.

"If you are serious about educating the whole child then you have to make sure you feed their artistic minds."

Frank Darnley, a Halifax-based sculptor who works with Bradford schools, said it was a good idea that children were getting more involved in the festival.

He said: "Art gives children who do not necessarily shine in other ways an outlet.

"Sculpture is especially good for this. There are lots of children who think they can't draw but when they get the chance to make something they are good.

"It gives them confidence and, as they usually work in a group, they gain teamwork skills."

And Karen Hood, an artist who lives in Undercliffe and recently worked on a display of 40 umbrellas with Atlas Community Primary School, Girlington, said: "Art is a language - it is a way of expressing yourself which is not verbal.

"For young people who find expressing themselves verbally quite difficult it's important for emotional development.

"Also, if we can get young people involved in art the parents get involved as well."

Bingley painter Jane Fielder said: "Art can give young people a lot. My son was very much involved in art and when he was going through teenage traumas he used painting to calm himself."

The festival will run from June 12 to 22. The competition will involve youngsters creating paintings or drawing.

The young people who create the best pieces will receive a Sony EJ750 personal CD player worth £69.99, donated by Sunwin House, and art equipment, donated by Probyns stationery and office products, in Bradford.

Graham Cox, Education Bradford's strategic manager for music, arts and sport, said: "It is an exciting opportunity for young people to express themselves.''

Schools are being asked to make sure the work is A4 in size and that all entries are received by Friday, May 16 at the latest.

Entries should be sent to Festival Art Competition, c/o Deborah Nicholson, Telegraph & Argus, Hall Ings, BD1 1JR. For further information ring Graham Cox on (01274) 385553.