Launching a street art competition celebrate community spirit

PRESS RELEASE FROM ALISTAIR STRATHERN MP

MONDAY 23^rd FEBRUARY 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Alistair Strathern, MP for Hitchin, has launched a brand‑new February Street Art Competition, inviting young people across the constituency to showcase what they love most about their community.

The competition calls on young designers, creators, and artists aged 13–18 to submit ideas for a new public mural in Hitchin Town.

Entrants are encouraged to capture something meaningful, a landmark, a memory, a shared space, or a moment that reflects what makes Hitchin special.

The winning design will be brought to life by local street artists later this year, creating a vibrant new piece of public art shaped directly by young people’s creativity.

Schools, parents, and carers are being encouraged to share the opportunity widely to ensure as many young artists as possible can take part. Submissions can be created in any medium, from digital art to pencil sketches, painting, collage, or mixed media.

Commenting on the launch, Alistair Strathern MP said:

“This February, I want to celebrate what we love about our community — and who better to lead that than our young people. Hitchin is full of creativity, and this competition is a chance for young artists to shape a new mural that reflects the places, people and moments that make our town feel like home.

“I can’t wait to see the ideas that come forward, and I’m delighted that the winning design will be transformed into a permanent piece of street art for everyone to enjoy.”

Notes for Editors

Entries should be sent to alistair.strathern.mp@parliament.uk 

The competition closes at the end of March.