AN acclaimed artist based in Gourock has kicked off the Christmas season by launching a children's festive card competition.

Alec Galloway, of Crow Cottage Arts, is linking with the next generation of creative talent in Inverclyde in aid of a good cause.

The winning entry will be printed as the official Crow Cottage Arts Christmas card this year, with all profits going to Callum's Cabin charity.

Alec runs the arts business with partner Louise Wylie and the pair recently opened a gallery in Kempock Street in Gourock.

He said: "We thought with opening up at this time, coming up to Christmas, that we could run a festive competition.

"We usually make a Christmas card but thought we would enjoy someone else designing it this year.

"Kids love the idea of their design being made permanent and being sent to their friends and families.

"It's a wee bit of an incentive."

Lots of entries have been coming in but there is still time left to create a design and Alec thinks that choosing the winner will be a tricky task.

He told the Tele: "There's plenty of talent out there in Inverclyde, I know that well from my own experience working with children at the stained glass workshops I run.

"Their ideas are always really original and a breath of fresh air."

Louise hopes the competition will help everyone to get into the festive spirit.

She added: " At Crow Cottage we love everything Christmassy and colourful, so we want everyone entering the competition to let their imagination go wild."

The competition is open to four to 12-year-olds.

Entries can be sent by email to crowcottagearts@outlook.com or dropped into the gallery, at 26 Kempock Street.

The shop is open Tuesday until Saturday 10am-5pm or Sunday 11am-4pm.

The closing date for entries is Friday November 12.