Ardee Girl Libby Wins Magical Trip to Lapland in Contest
By ArdeePost Reporter
Ardee Colouring Star Libby Wins Trip to Lapland
Eight-year-old artist takes top prize in national competition by The Irish Sun & Barnardos
There were scenes of sheer joy and celebration in Ardee this week as local girl Libby Kane, aged eight, was crowned the winner of The Irish Sun & Barnardos’ Big Toddle Colouring Competition, earning herself and her family an unforgettable trip to Lapland.
Libby, a student from Ardee, Co. Louth, dazzled judges with her colourful, detailed, and imaginative rendition of a drawing by renowned illustrator Chris Judge. Her vibrant use of colour, clever details, and sweet sticker embellishments helped her stand out among hundreds of entries from across the country.
The competition, sponsored by Sunway, offered a once-in-a-lifetime prize: a family holiday for four to Lapland, complete with husky sled rides, snowmobiling, reindeer sleigh journeys, and the ultimate highlight — meeting Santa Claus in his cosy, festive cabin.
A Dream Come True
Libby’s reaction was pure excitement.
“Oh my God, I can’t believe it, I am so excited. Can I tell my friends?”
Her proud parents, Grainne (44) and Patrick (45), and big brother Zach (14), were overjoyed.
“We are super proud of Libby and her hard work,” said Grainne.
“After receiving the call from Barnardos, we spent the evening ringing family and friends. I love the way she matches different colours.”
Libby’s journey to victory began thanks to her Nanny Rosie, who encouraged her to enter the competition. With patience and dedication, Libby worked on the picture across several weeks.
“She was with me when we got the call from Alison at Barnardos. Libby was super excited, as are we all. It’s a dream come true,” added her mum.
A History of Winning
This isn’t the first time Libby has brought pride to her school and community. Previously, she won sports equipment for her school through another competition — but a magical winter escape to Lapland is a whole new level of achievement.
The competition’s theme this year was “Little Heroes”, and Libby’s artwork was chosen from a standout selection by judges from Barnardos, The Irish Sun, and Sunway.
Judges Full of Praise
Alison Kelly, Head of Events at Barnardos, said:
“Libby’s winning picture stood out with bright colours, intricate details, and lovely sticker embellishments — a really sweet touch. We could see how much effort she had put in.”
“It’s always a magical moment when we ring to let a child know they’ve won. The squeals and joy are unforgettable — and Libby’s call was no different.”
Irish Sun Editor Fiona Wynne echoed the sentiment:
“We were absolutely overwhelmed by the incredible talent on display this year. The creativity from children across Ireland was phenomenal.”
The Kane family are now looking forward to their “Enchanted Escape” Lapland trip, filled with festive wonder and lifelong memories.
🎅 From Ardee to the Arctic Circle, Libby’s creativity has brought her family a magical winter adventure — and her hometown plenty of pride.