Thank you Scarlett

Schoolgirl Scarlett Wood has chalked up some real success thanks to her creative talents.

The nine-year-old has been showing her appreciation for frontline workers by designing artworks in her local community.

And her chalk murals, which started on the back wall of her home in the Lawe Top, South Shields, have proved so popular that she’s even started taking requests!

Scarlett said: “I found some chalk in my room and I wanted to write a letter to say thanks to the bin men and my dad said why don’t you draw a picture for them instead?"

“Then my neighbours asked if I would do one on their wall too. I really enjoy doing it and it’s nice to think they brighten up the community."

“People have started saying I am the new Banksy!”

Scarlett’s mum, Louise, added: “Word has spread and she’s had lots of people asking her to do them around where we live. We’re really proud of her.”

The Mayor of South Tyneside, Councillor Norman Dick, said: “On behalf of the people of South Tyneside, The Mayoress and I would like to convey our thanks gratitude to Scarlett for spreading a little cheer and showing gratitude to our key workers. What a wonderful way to pay tribute to them."

“I feel that South Tyneside has joined together, more than ever, as a community and as the Borough’s First Citizen, I would like to say a huge personal thank you for being part of our community and for helping us address this challenge in an extremely positive way. We are extremely #proud.”