Budding young artists have a golden opportunity for their artwork to be displayed at a prestigious Kent art gallery – but they must act fast.

The deadline for children’s arty competition the Perfect Packed Lunch Awards has been extended to noon on Wednesday, May 3.

To enter, primary school age children need to create a lunchbox meal for a pirate, princess or famous artist – or one of many other categories. They simply draw a picture of the packed lunch and write a wow statement about what makes their meal so special, plus the pretend method to cook or make the dish, as well as a list of imaginary ingredients.

Every entry will be showcased on the Perfect Packed Lunch Awards website as a recipe card featuring the child’s artwork and writing.

Contest judges will pick the category winners to invite to an awards ceremony at cultural hub the Beaney House of Art and Knowledge, where their work will go on display. The Beaney is located in the heart of historic Canterbury and comprises art gallery, museum and library.

Simon Dolby of the KM Charity Team, which is running the competition, said: “Children can let their imaginations go wild for the Perfect Packed Lunch Awards. It’s a great combination of art and creative writing with a wonderful prize to be won. If you know a wannabe artist make sure they don’t miss out on the fun.”

The full list of categories is Superhero, Princess, Pirate Captain, Famous Artist, Knight, Book Character, Celebrity, Healthy, Cheesy, Fantasy, Fairytale, and Historic.

The competition is supported by Three R's Teacher Recruitment, Golding Vision (part of Golding Homes) and Kent Libraries. Find out how to enter or view previous years’ entries at www.perfectpackedlunch.org.uk.