IMAGINE a Northwich where the shops sold only sweets and toys, which had a circus, beach and zoo and where people could wander through a magic wood.

That's the vision of the future according to a group of tots from St Wilfrid's School in Hartford.

The four-year-olds from Jo Whittaker's reception group are just one of the classes entering the schools section of our fantastic Northwich Guardian/Brunner Mond 125 Challenge.

They've designed a collage of the town featuring everything they'd like to see.

"They've thoroughly enjoyed it," said teacher Jo.

"They've done it bit by bit. I've left it out and they've added bits to it when they've finished the rest of their work."

Not all of the children's ideas are far-fetched. They also want to see lights on the town's two main bridges and boat trips along the Weaver - a suggestion in line with many other people of all ages.

The challenge is designed to find 125 ways of improving Northwich, one for each of the years Brunner Mond has been in business. The firm will use its links with councils and other organisation to try and make as many of them reality as possible.

If your school hasn't already entered, there's still time.

The closing date for entries is April 7 - with the school which comes up with the best ideas winning a cash prize of £500.

We haven't forgotten all the entries sent in by individuals and residents groups. The people who sent in the best three will each win £125 and the suggestions in both categories will be judged at the end of April.

If your school wants to enter, send your ideas to Northwich Guardian/Brunner Mond Challenge, Freepost, Northwich, CW741.

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