The social care charity in Tunbridge Wells has announced the winners of its 'My AuSome Art' competition, an initiative set up to raise awareness around Autism.

Aspens' based in Cornford Lane, Pembury, supports people with autism, learning disabilities and complex needs across Kent, Sussex and Bexley.

As part of the programme, it encouraged entrants from across the areas to use a variety of mediums to express their creativity and individuality for World Autism Awareness Week 2021 which started on March 29.

The charity was inundated with entries, from makeup art, to a song written by a young girl recently diagnosed with autism.

Miranda Davis, 43, from Gillingham, was one of the winners in the over 18 years category with her stunning painting of sunflowers.

Miranda, who has autism and is supported by Aspens, said: “I like to paint anything realistic like nature and buildings and I especially like oil painting.

"The last year has been incredibly frustrating, being cooped up and not being able to see our families very much.

"I don’t really know how I would have coped if it wasn’t for my art. It’s really therapeutic and calming and good for my mental health.”

Also flying the flag for Kent was Cameron Buchanan from Hartley who won the 12 to 18 years category.

Robert Brannan was a winner in the over 18s category, with his incredible painting of Jordan the dog.

The 22-year-old said: “I love drawing and painting and specialise in pet portraits. The painting is my mum’s friend's dog ‘Jordan’ which I painted in acrylics from a recent photograph."

Isabella Willett, 16, received Highly Commended in the 12 to 18 years category, for her makeup art entry.

Isabella said: "Makeup has been my passion since I was 11 years old and this look is one of my favourites I have ever done. It is inspired by David Bowie's Ziggy Stardust."

Hannah Cross who is 11, drew a picture of a waterfall for the competition and received highly commended in the five to 11 years category.

Emily Morley, who made a magnificent giraffe and elephant creation for her nan who she missed through lockdown, said: "The picture was difficult and took a long time but it gave me something to focus on when we were stuck indoors.

"I love drawing my own pictures and colouring with paint, pens and pencils. I also like to decorate the garden path with chalk.”

The entries were judged by Aspens' Chair of Trustees Gill Marcus and Trustee Peter Green, who admitted it was a tough job whittling the talent down.

Gill Marcus said: “I was blown away by the quality of all the art works - from traditional drawing and painting through to pieces of performance art, songwriting and model painting.

"It was an agonising job trying to pick winners in each age category because every piece was a winner in its own right and I’m delighted that we have been able to recognise every single entrant in some way.

"Well done to absolutely everyone who took the time to submit something to the competition.”

People with autism and learning disabilities have been particularly impacted by the pandemic, and a recent study found nine in 10 autistic people were worried about their mental health during lockdown.

The findings from the Left Stranded report by National Autistic Society also found 85% said their anxiety levels were made worse by Covid-19.

All funds raised through the competition will go towards helping the Aspens’ Family Support team to continue providing their services.

The charity provides a wide range of services such as round-the-clock residential care, supported living, an advice helpline and specialist support for families.

Read more: All the latest news from Tunbridge Wells