LITTLE Phoebe Petty had every reason to celebrate after winning a national competition to have her Christmas jumper design featured in shops across the country.

Mini Christmas jumpers will be worn by limited-edition cuddly bears being sold in WH Smith stores in aid of Save the Children.

Phoebe, nine, from Westcliff, visited the store in Southend High Street to see how her design looked on the bear, named Bruno.

She said: “I was very glad to meet Bruno for the first time and it was so exciting to see him in the WH Smith shop.

“He’s not left my side since. I’m so happy that he will help raise money to support children around the world.”

Phoebe’s design is one of just two chosen to be made from hundreds of entries and features a Christmas Tree on a red background.

The bears will be sold in stores across the UK and online from this week for £4.99, with £1 being donated to Save the Children for every bear sold.

Phoebe’s mum, Lucy Robinson, said: “We’re so proud of Phoebe and can’t wait to see the bears hit the shelves.

“It’s so wonderful that the bears are raising money for Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day.

“It’s such a worthwhile charity and we feel very passionate about the cause.

“We can’t wait to join Bruno the bear and wear our festive knits on December 15 to support Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day.”

Zoe Wagner, Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day campaign manager, said: “Every year the great British public really take this day to heart, and Phoebe’s brilliant Christmas jumper design is a perfect example of this.

“The money raised from the sale of these gorgeous WH Smith bears will help bring essentials like healthcare, education, protection and food to the millions of children around the world who are missing out on the most basic support.

“We hope everyone buys one, signs up to Christmas Jumper Day and joins in the festive fun on December 15.”

Kevin Hall, WH Smith stores director, added: “We were very impressed with Phoebe’s design – she’s clearly a budding artist.

“The best bit about our Christmas jumper bears this year is that they’ve been designed by children for children to raise money to help children.

“We’re extremely proud to be supporting Save the Children’s vital work again this year.”

To take part in Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day simply wear a festive top on December 15 and donate £2 to Save the Children.

For more information visit christmasjumperday.org/