The Giraffe of Joy is one of the Christmas characters aiming to make cash for Tavistock’s iconic Sensory Garden - along with reindeer and a snowman.

The characters are just a few on yuletide card designs by youngsters from schools across the town who have used their artistic talents to help raise money to boost the coffers of the garden, which is based Meadows public open space.

Garden trustee Graham Parker said: ‘It costs £2,000 a year to keep the Sensory Garden going. Although we value very much the donations that we receive from local people and companies, a major source of our income is from the sale of merchandise and it has become a tradition that we look to Tavistock’s young people for inspiration. Our Christmas cards on the theme ‘My Tavistock’ have been a best seller for two years, and this year’s cards show the incredible talent of our young children even more.’

Year 5 children from the four Tavistock Primary Schools were invited to create cards to show their idea of Christmas. The 9 and 10 year old children went to work during October and, by half term, each school had chosen their best five cards. Garden trustees selected two from each school to make up the final set of eight.

‘The result is spectacular’, co-organiser Annette Sharpe said. ‘From the Baby Jesus to winter wonderland scenes, reindeer and snowmen - we’ve got them all. And, if you ask a nine-year old to design a Christmas Card, of course you’re going to get the Giraffe of Joy. What incredible imagination.’

Each of the designers of the winning cards will receive a £15 Tavistock Gift Card donated by local businesses who have also sponsored the printing of each card. The cards will be on sale from November 17, price £5 for a pack of eight, at the Bedford Hotel, the Visitor Information Centre, Café Liaison, the Pet Emporium, Whitchurch Post Office, the Whitchurch Inn and at Dickensian Evening on December.

Anyone who wants to find out more about or would like to become a Friend of the Sensory Garden, can contact [email protected]. Potential card sellers can contact [email protected] or on 07545 075942.