Flair, UK distributor of the Spirograph brand, has revealed the results of its first awards.

At a private London ceremony held on Wednesday 29th May, the first-ever British astronaut, Helen Sharman CMG OBE, alongside Flair’s Nicola Bergot, presented the awards to the young winners and runners up of the Spirograph Young Designers of the Year awards.

The search began back in January and involved children being asked to create a night sky or space picture inspired by the shapes and patterns created with Spirograph. Pictures were then judged by a panel including team members from Flair and also by Helen Sharman, who has an obvious affinity with this year’s theme.

After much deliberation, the awards were announced and presented by Helen at the Covent Garden Hotel. Peter Bridgeland, aged 11 from Sheffield, was announced as winner of the 8s and Over category with his creation, Binary Star. Isla Avigad, age six from Chorleywood, was the winner of the 7s and Under category with her colourful picture called Meet the Aliens. Also present were the runners up; Phoebe Hampton from Folkestone was recognised for her stunning creation of the Solar System called Out of this World, while Sisters Rosa and Anna Gomes (ages seven and five) with their joint work of cut-and-stick artwork called The Planets.

Helen Sharman commented: “I loved Spirograph when I was young and with this year’s theme, I was delighted to be involved. We had lots of entries and it’s really good to see how the children interpreted the space and night sky theme. Well done to all the winners and runners up!”

Nicola Bergot added: “I first met Helen during a BTHA event where, as guest speaker, she spoke about how Spirograph was one of her favourite toys. It was therefore only natural to invite her to be part of this inaugural Spirograph Young Designer competition. Her help in both judging and presenting the awards was invaluable, and I know that the children and their parents were absolutely thrilled to meet her.”

After the formalities, all present were treated to afternoon tea and the children had time to chat to Helen about her time in space. “It was a lovely day and we’d like to thank everyone for entering the competition and to Helen for making it so special,” said Nicola.