A Hornchurch schoolgirl has come up with a cracking design to warn other youngsters about the dangers of fireworks.

Dominika Pacholec, eight, from St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, in Hornchurch Road, beat rivals from 32 other schools to win the annual poster competition.

Her design will now be displayed throughout the borough, said organisers from Havering Police, Council and firefighters.

Pupils were given a presentation on the dangers of fireworks by safer neighbourhood officers and invited to design their own posters showing the firework code.

Finalists from each school were then judged and the overall winner chosen.

Chief Inspector David Hay said: “This was an excellent opportunity for the children to show their understanding of the important lessons relating to firework safety.”

Dagenham and Redbridge Football Club have donated a pair of tickets to a home football match for each of the schools that took part.

Cllr Geoff Starns, cabinet member for community safety, said: “We all want to enjoy the fun and spectacle of fireworks at this time of year but it’s also important that children learn about safety around fireworks. What a great way to make it fun and engaging than with a competition like this.”