Ancuta Gurau was praised for her watercolour effort depicting peoples love and compassion for animals

A budding artist from Wembley who expressed her love for animals through art has been recognised by a national award.

Ancuta Gurau, 12, was praised in her category for her watercolour effort depicting peoples love and compassion for animals.

The competition, run by campaign group Animal Aid,was launched to encourage young people, aged 11-14, to express their views on animal welfare issues.

Ancuta, who attends Kingsbury High School, regularly attends art workshops at the school and was encouraged to enter the competition by her art teacher.

She said: “I felt really excited when Ms Conway told us about the theme because I like animals and when she told me I had won an award, I was really surprised.”

Animal Aid’s Competition Organiser, Ben Martin, said: “The artwork we received was exciting, imaginative and bold, and revealed a thoughtful and compassionate younger generation.

“I feel sure that these qualities will be of great benefit to animals, people and the planet. Heartfelt congratulations to Ancuta – she richly deserves her award.”