A 12-YEAR-OLD schoolgirl has her paintings on show at the Royal Academy in London. Daisy Brookes of Aylotts Close, Buntingford, is Junior Painter of the Year after winning a national art competition run by The Royal Academy and Sight Savers International.

A 12-YEAR-OLD schoolgirl has her paintings on show at the Royal Academy in London.

Daisy Brookes of Aylotts Close, Buntingford, is Junior Painter of the Year after winning a national art competition run by The Royal Academy and Sight Savers International.

More than 9,400 school children entered the competition, after primary school pupils across the country were set the task of painting their favourite sights and scenes.

Daisy, who won the under 11 category, attended Bassingbourn Primary School when she entered the competition, but has since moved up to Bassingbourn Village College.

The talented youngster said: "When I heard that I had won, I was really shocked. I didn't think I had a chance of winning, especially with so many kids taking part."

Daisy's winning painting wasn't a picture of her bedroom, a football pitch, or favourite sweet shop - because Daisy's favourite place is the classroom.

She said: "I enjoy school and I like spending time there and having fun. I always look forward to my art lessons."

Her winning painting, which featured children in a classroom, was put together through a use of mixed media.

"I used a mix of photography, print and water colours," said Daisy.

"It's good to use different media because you can be really creative."

Mum Gillian Brookes said: "The whole family is over the moon. We are all very proud."

Daisy's artwork will be on display in the café area of the Academy, the first time young children's paintings have been exhibited in this way.

Mrs Brookes added: "Most artists dream of having their work displayed in the Royal Academy - and here's Daisy doing it at 12.

"It would be nice to get the painting back, but whether it's hung in the Royal Academy or in our front room we'll be happy."

Art co-ordinator at Bassingbourn Primary School Hazel Matthews said: "We are thrilled that Daisy won the award, it's a remarkable achievement."

Daisy will be attending an award ceremony tonight (Thursday) to receive her prize, and Mrs Matthews will receive a prize for the school.

The exhibition runs until October 26.