Talented twosome Toby Kippin and Ruby Stoddart are our Carbon Monoxide Creative competition regional prize winners for 2022.

The pair entered the competition organised by the UK’s four gas distribution networks and supported by the Energy Networks Association, which calls for youngsters aged five to 11 to use their creative talent to raise awareness of the dangers of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.

Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas that cannot be seen, smelled, heard or tasted and is responsible for around 50 deaths in the UK each year. It’s created by the incomplete burning of fossil or solid fuels.

Toby, of Corbridge First School in Northumberland took the Key Stage 1 prize for his CO safety poster, while Ruby of Kingsley Primary School near Hartlepool picked up the Key Stage 2 prize with her clever animation.

A further award was given to Oakfield Park School, for recognition their poster entry delivered by a group of students.

Each winner collected £150 each for themselves, and £300 for their school in recognition of their superb creative efforts.

NGN’s Head of Social Strategy Jill Walker said: “We and the other gas networks were extremely impressed by the creative entries for this year’s competition, as it’s such a great way for youngsters and their families to learn and recognise the potential dangers of carbon monoxide.

“Understanding that appliances need to be checked every year by a Gas Safe engineer, and the importance of an audible CO alarm in your home saves lives.”