THERE was plenty of festive cheer among the lucky winners of this year’s Bolton News Christmas card competition.

Libbi Thomas, aged seven, of Darcy Lever, won in the age four to seven category, while Keira-Leigh Cowell, aged 10, of Farnworth, won in the age eight to 11 category.

The pair, who both attend St Teresa’s RC Primary School in Little Lever, each won a B'Twin hybrid bike from Decathlon and family tickets for Bolton’s Winter Wonderland.

Libbi, whose drawing of a snow angel saw her crowned joint winner, said: “I’m really excited to have won. This is my first time in the competition and I just wanted to take part, but to win is fantastic.

“I will use the bike to go to Leverhulme Park with my dad.”

For Christmas, Libbi would like a sewing machine.

Libbi’s mum Zoe, aged 40, said: “It’s fantastic for Libbi. She’s needed a bigger bike, so this prize has come at just the right time. It’s a gorgeous bike — just like something she’d pick.”

Keira Leigh, who drew a snowman card, said: “It feels very good to win and I was very shocked when I found out.

“I can’t wait to ride my new bike."

Keira Leigh’s mum Amanda, aged 32, said: “I’m absolutely over the moon — I can’t believe she’s won.

“I was going to get her a bike, so it’s great that she’s got one.”

Andy Barker, store manager at Decathlon Bolton, said: “We’re very pleased to be giving these bikes away.

“This is the second year we’ve got involved with the competition and for us it’s all about giving to the community, especially at Christmas.”

Among the other prizes for this year's competition were family tickets to Cinderella, two sets of family tickets to the Octagon's festive performance of Alice in Wonderland, chocolate Santas from Slattery’s in Whitefield and bowling for eight at Hollywood Bowl in Middlebrook Retail Park.

Presenting the prizes was panto star Stu Francis, who is playing Buttons in Cinderella at the Albert Halls.

He said: “It’s always a joy to see youngsters happy .

“With a pantomime, there’s something in it for everyone — it is geared up for both boundaries, adults and children.

“Cinderella has got everything and the reception towards it has been brilliant so far — at times, it sounds like a Boeing 777 taking off.

“I’m sure Sam and his family will enjoy it — although they should make sure they bring earplugs along with them just in case."

The runners-up in the age four to seven category were Kiera Stillwell, aged six, and Lucy Mulholland, aged seven, while the runners-up in the eight to 11 category were Hannah Tipping, aged 10, and Sam Leighton, aged 11.