LIFE'S a beach for little Amy Randles after her grand designs were used to give a council department a Malibu-makeover.

A tropical treat awaits children visiting Bolton Council's Social Services reception area in Queen Street thanks to a new play area depicting a tropical beach with a treasure chest containing toys and a picnic table

Judith Kelleway, Cath Hough and Christine Blackburn, part of the office services team, wanted to brighten up a dismal and boring area. In particular they wanted their young visitors to be happy and entertained. They came up with the idea of having a competition - 'Design a Beach Scene'.

And nine-year-old Amy, who drew a scene with tropical palm trees, white sands, blue sky and sailing ships, had the pleasure of seeing the picture turned into an exciting mural painted by Studio Design Partnership of Bolton.

For her efforts, Amy was presented with a wooden art box, containing paints, crayons and pencils, by the Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Kevan Helsby.

Cllr Cliff Morris, Executive Member for Social Services and Health, said: "It's a wonderful idea and the winning design really brightens up the area as well as helping people with visual difficulties."