A series of writing and art competitions have been launched to encourage children to pick up their pens and get creative in lockdown.

Thameslink and the Bedford to St Albans Community Rail Partnership launched the trained-themed challenges to help keep children busy at home.

Entries for both the art and writing competitions must be sent in by May 11.

The first competition is to write a short story focusing on VE Day to commemorate the 75th anniversary.

A total of 44 schools located near the Thameslink stations between Bedford and St Alban have already been asked to take part.

For the short story competition, children are required to submit a piece of no more than 500 words on the topic of "the train home".

Those aged eight to 11 are asked to write about the thoughts evacuated children returning home after the war and the feelings of those welcoming them back.

Meanwhile, those aged 12 to 15 are asked to write about the thoughts of servicemen returning home from the war and those waiting to see them.

The ach carart competition is open to children up to the age of eight from participating schools with the theme "the magical train where each carraige has a different adventure".

Thameslink and Great Northern managing director, Tom Moran, said: "We play a proud part in the communities we serve and now, more than ever, we want to offer parents a helping hand in keeping children occupied and people connected as the lockdown continues."

Entries should be sent to Community@GTRailway.com. More information can also be found at https://tinyurl.com/BSACCRPMayComp.